Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

DECEMBER • JANUARY | 2022

GEARED FOR EXCELLENCE

Ms BR Hlekane Principal at Vhembe TVET College

SAFETY FIRST

A look at water safety during the festive season

SA HOLIDAY GUIDE 5 things to do in South Africa this festive season

FINANCIAL FITNESS Tips for how to find financial success in 2022

NEW MAYOR FOCUS Post Local Government Elections: Meet the new metro mayors

The MDB unpacks the municipal outer boundary change process

ADVERTORIAL

BY MUNICIPAL DEMARCATION BOARD

T

he municipal outer boundary change/re-determination process is now open, and is conducted in terms of the Municipal Demarcation Act (MDA) of 1998 and other appropriate legislation enacted in terms of Chapter 7 of the Constitution.

In line with lessons learnt in the previous cycle and to maximise public participation, members of the public and stakeholders who wish to submit proposals to determine or re-determine municipal boundaries, (not ward boundary delimitation) are welcome to submit by no later than 31 March 2022. It should be noted that no late submissions will be accepted after the closing date.

DIFFERENT CATEGORIES OF OUTER BOUNDARIES Municipal boundary changes are classified as follows: •

Class 1: Technical and minor boundary re-determinations This re-determination entails a small scale boundary adjustment and alignment with a minor impact on the geographic area, a negligible or no impact on the number of voters and no impact on the capacity of the affected municipalities.

•

Class 2: Consolidation and Annexations - This is a medium scale boundary redetermination that may impact on a sizable geographic area, and number of voters in one or all the municipalities affected.

This type of determination may impact on ward arrangements but will not materially impact on the capacities of the affected municipalities to deliver services.

All proposals submitted must be motivated in terms of section 24 and 25 of the MDA (Demarcation criteria) and section 2 of the Municipal Structures Act (MSA) for re categorisation of municipalities.

More information on the process including proposal submission forms can be obtained on the MDB website (www.demarcation.co.za) or on request by contacting 012 342 2481 or email at registry@demarcation. org.za.

The proposals must be emailed to registry@demarcation.org.za or faxed to 012 3422480, or posted to Private Bag X123, Centurion, 0046 or hand delivered to Eco Origins Office Park, Block C1, 349 Witch-Hazel Avenue, Highveld, 0157. The proposals must be addressed for the attention of the Chairperson of the MDB.

•

Class 3: Amalgamations This type of re-determination entails a major and large scale municipal boundary redetermination which will have a significant impact on the geographic areas, the number of voters, and the capacities of the affected municipalities, the re-determination includes the merging of adjacent municipalities or the splitting of municipal areas to create other municipal areas.

2 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

•

Class 4: Categorisation - This is a type of re-determination that involves the categorisation of any new Category A Metropolitan, Category C District and Category B Local municipalities with or without boundary changes; Category A must satisfy Section 2 of the MSA and Section 24 and 25 of the Act respectively; the Board will categorise an area that qualify to be a category A municipalities after consultation with National Minister responsible for local government, the MEC for local government in the provinces concerned, and SALGA. n

Mr Thabo Manyoni Chairperson of the MDB

COMPANY DETAILS Address: 349 Witch-Hazel Avenue Eco Origins Office Park Block C1 Highveld Tel: (+27) 12 342 2481 Web: demarcation.org.za Email: info@demarcation.org.za Social Media: Facebook/Linkedin: Municipal Demarcation Board | Twitter: @ MunicipalBoard

Municipal Boundary Re-determination Process In terms of Municipal Demarcation Act (MDA)

The following steps are taken during the municipal boundary change process: 1

2

3

Initiation of Boundary Redetermination in terms of Section 22 of MDA

Publication in terms of Section 26 of MDA

4

Consideration of Section 26 views and representations

Determine boundaries in terms of Section 21 of MDA or conduct public meetings in terms of Section 28 of MDA OR Conduct formal investigations in terms of Section 29/30 of MDA OR Conduct both public meetings concurrently with formal investigations

5

6 Consider Reports

7

Decision to redetermine and publish in terms of Section 21 of MDA for objections

8 Consider objections

OR Decision not to Re-determine

For more information:

Final decision on redetermination Confirm vary or withdraw Publish decision in provincial gazette in terms of Section 21(5) of MDA

012 342 2481

info@demarcation.org.za I www.demarcation.org.za

072 819 8220

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 3

Contents

DECEMBER • JANUARY 2022 | ISSUE 12

Editorial 18 | Booming Industries An overview of booming sectors across the country

44 | New Mayor Focus Post Local Government Elections: Meet the new metro mayors

22 | MTBPS Focus Sifting through the numbers of the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement

68 | Tourism In Focus Travel bans and the road to recovery amid pandemic pressures

26 | SA Holiday Guide 5 things to do in South Africa this festive season 34 | Safety First A look at water safety during the festive season

14

60 | COVID-19 Update Alcohol vs COVID-19: The protective measures being put in place 64 | International Relations Shaping South Africa's future through diplomatic relations

32 | Giving Back Find out how you can do good during the holiday season 36 | Road Safety Be Aware: Slow and steady wins the race 40 | Cybercrime in Focus Laying down the law on cybercrime & online fraudulent activity

34

Features 10 | Addressing The Nation President Ramaphosa addresses the Omnicron variant 14 | Cover Story Vhembe TVET College: Geared For Excellence 48 | Women in Leadership WC Minister of Social Development, Sharna Fernandez, is committed to supporting vulnerable communities

52 | Trailblazer Dr Joe Phaahla heads up the country’s top health priorities

70 | Financial Fitness Tips for how to find financial success in 2022

58 | In Other News Zooming in on the State of AIDS in South Africa

72 | Legal Matters The Great Resignation: Should you be worried?

62 | Regional Focus A look at the Western Cape’s Municipal Energy Resilience (MER) Project

74 | Upcoming Events It’s all about Festive Cheer & New Outlooks as we head into the new year

4 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

GOVPROP THE PUBLIC PROPERTY & PRIVATE CAPITAL PLATFORM

033 343 2868

www.govprop.co.za

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 5

44

74 26

CREDITS PUBLIC SECTOR LEADERS The Digimag For Leaders In The South African Public Sector

Editorial Assistant Koketso Mamabolo Koketso.mamabolo@topco.co.za

Advertising Sales, Distribution and Subscriptions Top Media & Communcations (Pty) Ltd Tel: 086 000 9590 Info@topco.co.za | www.topco.co.za

Contributors Jessie Taylor Silke Rathbone

CEO Ralf Fletcher TOPCO STUDIO Production Director Van Fletcher van.fletcher@topco.co.za Group Editor Fiona Wakelin fiona.wakelin@topco.co.za Senior Assistant Editor Charndré Emma Kippie charndre.kippie@topco.co.za

Printers CTP Printers Images iStock / Unsplash / GCIS | Flikr

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Head Office Top Media & Communications (Pty) Ltd T/A Topco Media Elkay House, 186 Loop St Cape Town

Subscriptions and Distributions Daniel Bouwer artwork@topco.co.za

Tel: +27 86 000 9590 Fax: +27 21 423 7576 Email: info@topco.co.za Website: www.topco.co.za

SALES National Project Manager Emlyn Dunn Tel: 072 1263962 emlyn.dunn@topco.co.za

DISCLAIMER All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written consent of Top Media & Communications (Pty) Ltd T/A Topco Media. Reg. No. 2011/105655/07.

While every care has been taken when compiling this publication, the publishers, editor and contributors accept no responsibility for any consequences arising from any errors or emissions.

Brand Coordinator Sidney Phiri sidney.phiri@topco.co.za

6 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

EDITOR’S LETTER

BY FIONA WAKELIN

Letter from the Editor Welcome to the December/January edition of Public Sector Leaders (PSL).

I

n his letter to the country this week – From the Desk of the Presidency – our President focuses on COVID, particularly the Omicron variant and how important it is for us all to practice the protocols, and vaccinate.

“Vaccination is essential for our economic recovery, because as more people are vaccinated more areas of economic activity will be opened up.

We can do our work and socialise under less stringent restrictions, and our lives can return to some degree of normality.

“As individuals, we must carefully consider the implications of the risk to ourselves of being unvaccinated and the risk of spreading the infection to our children, parents, relatives, co-workers and those we do not even know,” – President Ramaphosa.

Early in December, President Ramaphosa undertook official visits to the Republics of Senegal, Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. However, this month has seen a reduction in Honourable President Ramaphosa’s number of public appearances as he has been isolating. We understand he is in good spirits and is making fine progress in his recovery. On 19 December it was Minister Gwede Mantashe had also tested positive for COVID. This bumper edition of PSL celebrates the months of both December and January and looks at how to keep safe during the festive season. Our Trailblazer is the Minister of Health Dr Joe Phaahla and we celebrate Women in Leadership by focusing on the Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Hon. Sharna Fernandez.

We bring you an update on the new mayors in the metros post the November local government elections and in Other News there is an update on AIDS in SA. Our Legal Matters feature looks at what is currently extremely topical: “The Great Resignation”, while in the Financial Fitness section, you will find useful tips and advice on “How to find financial success in 2022” – a nifty checklist to get your finances in order for the new year, which is just around the corner. The Regional Focus is on Western Cape, and we take a look at the travel bans and what this means for staycations.

Whether you are in the public sector, the private sector, supply chainor an interested individual, PSL has something for you We hope you enjoy the read.

FIONA WAKELIN | GROUP EDITOR

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 9

ADDRESSING THE NATION

BY FIONA WAKELIN

Addressing The Nation President Ramaphosa addresses the Omicron variant

P

resident Ramaphosa’s first letter to the nation in the month of December focused on the fourth wave of COVID-19 infections.

The Omicron variant that South African scientists discovered in November appears to be dominating the number of new infections in most provinces – the rate of which is similar to the start of the pandemic, with the number of daily infections 5 times greater and nearly a quarter of all COVID-19 tests coming back positive.

Honourable Ramaphosa assures us that scientists in South Africa, and around the world, are working hard to find out more about the new variant and how effective vaccines will be against it.

He also urges us to remember that this had been anticipated and that disease modellers in South Africa had predicted not only that a fourth wave would emerge around this time, but that it was almost inevitable that we would experience new variants of the virus.

It is therefore imperative that the vaccination drive continues apace as scientific evidence continues to show that vaccination is the most effective means of preventing the spread of new

10 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

infections, and that vaccines reduce severe illness, hospitalisation and death.

We have sufficient supplies of vaccines and there are vaccine stations set up throughout the country.

“Vaccines are safe, and like all other routine vaccinations we received as children and against diseases like measles, they offer the most potent form of protection available.

While we start to learn more about the Omicron variant, this must not halt our vigilance in adhering to the fundamentals.

“I call on all South Africans to go out and get vaccinated without delay. If necessary, take advantage of the Vooma Vaccination Weekends that make it easier to visit the facility closest to you.

n

“Vaccination is essential for our economic recovery, because as more people are vaccinated more areas of economic activity will be opened up. We can do our work and socialise under less stringent restrictions, and our lives can return to some degree of normality.

“As individuals, we must carefully consider the implications of the risk to ourselves of being unvaccinated and the risk of spreading the infection to our children, parents, relatives, co-workers and those we do not even know.

“The massive surge in infections means that, in addition to vaccination, we need to be far more diligent in reducing our contact with people outside our household. Social distancing is difficult as the festive season approaches, but the evidence shows that gatherings – mainly those held indoors – carry the greatest risk of transmission. Many people have been disappointed by the cancellation of some big events in recent days, but it is by far the safest and most responsible thing to do now” – President Ramaphosa.

The basics, such as wearing masks, social distancing and avoiding crowds need to be practiced more consistently and without exception and every facility that serves the public has a legal responsibility to ensure these protocols are observed.

“‘Let us all play our part in South Africa’s social and economic recovery. Let us do the responsible and right thing for our own health and for the health of others, ” – President Ramaphosa

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 11

A CSI strategy anchored to the green economy enhances Nedbank’s ability to do good see money differently

One of the biggest challenges for corporate social investment (CSI) in South Africa is the fact that the demand for financial support of worthy causes and upliftment projects continues to outstrip supply. Responding to this challenge demands that organisations find ways to optimise the support they make available and ensure that every rand provided through their CSI initiatives delivers maximum bang for their CSI buck.

For Nedbank, responding appropriately to this need means constantly revisiting and adapting its CSI strategy and approach to align with the constantly shifting needs of people and communities. At the end of 2019, this comprehensive self-assessment led the Nedbank Foundation – Nedbank’s primary CSI arm – to identify the green economy as a sustainable and meaningful overarching theme around which the group’s entire CSI strategy and approach could be designed going forward.

According to Poovi Pillay, Executive Head of the Nedbank Foundation, the decision to anchor Nedbank’s CSI efforts in the green economy was based on the recognition of the green economy as much more than just an environmental issue, but rather a key enabler of South Africa’s economic growth, social upliftment and inclusion, and the protection of the country’s natural ecosystem.

Green economy strategic lever 1: Agriculture The agriculture strategic lever focuses on supporting innovative supply chains, beneficiation, diversification in the sector, appropriate land use, regenerative agriculture and building climate-change resilience. Just one example of a project that is achieving these outcomes through Nedbank’s partnership and support is the Buhle Farmers Adacemy.

The programme is working to address specific constraints that developing farmers face and support them by providing training, skills transfer coaching, mentoring and start-up funding assistance. To date, the Nedbank Foundation has provided close to R5 million in support, which has enabled the 10 participating farmers to enhance the business performance of their farms, deliver employment opportunities, maximise their involvement in the food value chain and contribute to local economic development and food security in their communities.

‘Building the green economy is the only truly viable pathway to a resource-efficient, low-carbon, pro-employment future for our country,’ he explains. ‘Our commitment to the green economy as our CSI anchor strategy is one of the key ways in which we intend contributing to its realisation and sustainable effectiveness. Our green economy anchor theme enables us to deliver on our purpose (to do good) in a way that maximises our social impact while creating shared value for all our stakeholders and our own business.’

While the official implementation of the Green Economy CSI strategy had to be put on hold in 2020 due to Covid-19, the Nedbank Foundation has gradually been realigning its key support focus areas to the four main themes underpinning the strategy, namely agriculture, energy, water and waste. The strategy has been implemented at the start of 2021 and since then, its potential to maximise Nedbank’s CSI commitment has been made patently clear through the outcomes delivered by the projects receiving support.

12 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

Green economy strategic lever 2: Energy The energy strategic lever involves targeted support of the circular economy, access to energy by rural communities, innovation, generation

and climate-change mitigation across the sector. The Kgabiso Palesa Cares non-profit invests in the development of around 100 young people and 10 small, medium and microenterprises in deep rural parts of Northern Cape and Free State, with the aim of preparing them to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the fast-growing renewable-energy sector.

Green economy strategic lever 4: Waste By supporting projects across the entire waste supply chain, Nedbank aims to improve waste management, drive innovation in the sector, and ensure the integration of the informal waste sector into the formal economy for the benefit of all stakeholders.

The Tafara Foundation is a women-owned, non-profit organisation working to establish an end-of-life tyre recycling plant that will recycle tyres into various reusable forms, reducing the number of these toxic items in landfills, while also creating hundreds of formal and informal income-earning opportunities.

Green economy strategic lever 3: Water

‘The identification of the green economy as the Nedbank CSI anchor also enables us to consolidate and align our CSI activities across our group,’ Pillay explains. ‘This strategically aligned approach is helping us to fully maximise the value of the support we offer, making a real and lasting contribution to sustainable development and catalysing scalable economic and employment opportunities.’

As long-time leaders in water stewardship, Nedbank has first-hand experience of the power of partnerships in building water resilience and security. The aim with this strategic lever is to build even more partnerships to maintain and restore water ecosystems and improve efficiency and availability.

Indalo Inclusive SA is a prime example of the potential to make a sustainable difference through a cross-cutting green economy approach.

Indalo supports and promotes social, green, inclusive and responsible entrepreneurship that contributes to economic development and employment. With Nedbank’s support, Indalo is establishing its Indalopreneur programme to support 30 green enterprises in various sectors, including water security, to achieve business resilience and sustainability.

Nedbank Ltd Reg No 1951/000009/06. Licensed financial services and registered credit provider (NCRCP16).

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 13

COVER STORY VHEMBE TVET COLLEGE

Vhembe TVET College Geared For Excellence Vhembe TVET College is one of the progressive TVET colleges with coherent systems and initiatives that effectively support teaching and learning. In its 55 years of existence the college has produced people of prominence in various fields of trade.

Due to the vastness of the area the college has, by far, the most enrolled students in the college than its peers, nationally. Through partnerships forged with strategic institutions, like SETA’s, it has made Vhembe TVET College to be an institution of choice.

COLLEGE PROFILE Vhembe TVET College was established in 1963 under the name Bantu State School. In 1967 the school was then named ‘Bantu Trade School’ due to its diversity.

Ms BR Hlekane Principal at Vhembe TVET College

14 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

In 1985, the school was renamed to Finyazwanda College until 1992, which was when it was renamed as the Technical College of Venda (Techniven), until 2003.

In 2003, the college then became known as Vhembe FET College (up until 2014). Today, the college has six campuses: Makwarela Campus, Tshisimani Campus, Mashamba Campus, Mavhoi Campus, Thengwe Campus , Shingwedzi Campus and Makhado Satellite Campus – and is officially known as Vhembe TVET College.Vhembe TVET College is located in the Vhembe District Municipality, which is in the far north of the Limpopo Province.

COURSES OFFERED The District comprises four municipalities, namely, Thulamela, Makhado, Lim 345 (Collins Chabane Municipality) and Musina, with the seat located in Thohoyandou. It covers 21, 000km2 or 18% of the province. The college has six campuses, namely, Makwarela, Mashamba, Mavhoi, Tshisimani, Thengwe and recently launched Shingwedzi.

The Central Office of Vhembe TVET College is situated in Sibasa about 3km from Makwarela Campus, about 49km from Mavhoi, 77km from Mashamba and 31km from Tshisimani Campus, 29 km from Thengwe Campus which is situated at Mutale area and is specialising in learnerships and short skills courses and also offers NCV and Report 191 Business studies programmes.

The college and the DHET launched the established Shingwedzi Campus at Malamulele area to open in 2017 – which is 42km from the Central Office and a satellite at Musina. The economic activity in the area is characterized by small enterprises, e.g. agricultural activities, tourism and mining, car servicing, and welding; distributed among the rural settlement.

Unemployment and poverty and inequality are huge problems. The unemployment rate is incredibly high, much more than the provincial average.

There is a shortage of infrastructure and big industries for the placement of students and lecturers.

NATIONAL CERTIFICATE VOCATIONAL (NCV) Engineering Studies (NCV) •

Electrical Infrastructure and construction

•

Civil Engineering and building construction

•

Engineering and related design

•

Information technology and computer science

•

Process Plan Operations

Business Studies (NCV) •

Finance, Economics and Accounting, (FEA)

•

Generic Management

•

Marketing Management

•

Office Administration

•

Primary Agriculture

•

Educare

REPORT 191/ NATED STUDIES Engineering Studies (Nated) •

Chemical Engineering (Water Treatment)

•

Civil Engineering (Masonry, Plumbing, carpentry, Roads and bricklaying)

•

Electrical Engineering (Light and Heavy current)

• •

NATED (REPORT 190 / 191) Business Studies •

Marketing Management

•

Human Resource Management

•

Financial Management

•

Business Management

•

Public Management

•

Management Assistant

•

Farming Management

Utility Studies •

Hospitality Services

•

Clothing Production

•

Tourism

Short skills such as: •

Project Management

•

Entrepreneurship skills

•

Learnerships

•

Drone Pilot (outsourced)

•

Financial management, Business management and office administration courses (some offered in a distance learning mode).

Mechanical engineering (Boiler making, fitting and turning, motor mechanic)

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 15

Vhembe TVET College staff members that participated in the technical operation training workshop in August.

MAJOR SKILLS BOOST IN AGRI-HORTICULTURE FOR TVET COLLEGES Vhembe Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College (Mashamba Campus) is the second TVET College beneficiary of a technology-driven greenhouse tunnel in South Africa.

The objective of the three-year Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP), titled “Strengthening Skills of TVET Staff and Students for Optimizing Water Usage and Climate Smart Agriculture in South Africa” is to develop the skills of TVET graduates in the agri-horticultural sector and enhance their employability.

This is one of the milestones in the Stellenbosch University (SU) and Maastricht School of Management (MSM) project

partnership – the project is funded by the Netherlands Universities Foundation for International Cooperation (NUFFIC), through the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The installation of the greenhouse tunnel is the result of a number of assessment activities which involved researchers from SU, Dutch greenhouse experts through MSM, as well as TVET staff from Vhembe, Motheo, and Boland Colleges. One of these assessments, conducted from December 2019 to January 2020, highlighted the key industrydriven skills requirement by the private horticulture sector in the domain of water-smart agrihorticulture. The investment in the greenhouse will therefore develop and enhance the skills and employability of TVET graduates. The official

16 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

greenhouse handover took place on Friday 27 August 2021, through which Mr NW Maumela, campus manager at Mashamba Campus of Vhembe TVET College, introduced all parties present and gave a detailed account of activities that are currently carried out at the campus. Mr J. Sambo, deputy admin manager at Vhembe TVET College and program director of the day, followed up by elucidating the purpose of the event.

The greenhouse operation workshop was conducted by Mr B. Stevens from Vegtech, supplier of the greenhouse tunnel, who trained the TVET staff members about all relevant technical aspects and maintenance considerations for the tunnel. Thereafter, Dr R van der Westhuizen, a crop production specialist, inspected the greenhouse and approved

its operation and functionality by signing off the final acceptance certificate and handing over the greenhouse key to Vhembe TVET College.

Over the next few weeks, Dr van der Westhuizen will play a crucial role in the operationalisation of the greenhouse and starting with horticultural production training in the greenhouse for the college students. Ms BR Hlekane, principal of Vhembe College, concluded the event program by extending her gratitude and acclaim to the OKP partners for making the greenhouse establishment a success. A longstanding relationship will be important to fulfil the objective of developing the skills of college students using crop management technologies in the greenhouse. A third greenhouse tunnel was erected at Boland TVET College (Worcester Campus) at the end of October 2021.

MULTIMEDIA CENTRE FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES The MTN SA Foundation in partnership with the Office of Deputy Minister of the Department of Social Development, Hendrietta Bogapone-Zulu, has launched a state of the art multimedia centre for students with disabilities at Vhembe TVET in Makwarela Campus.

The innovative development with 20 workstations in the multimedia centre adapted to cater for deaf, blind and partially sighted students.

The programme is structured around the effective use and

integration of technology and digital content in the classroom through the construction of multimedia centres, provision of equipment and curriculum aligned software.

MTN’s R1.249mn investment at Vhembe includes the following: •

A fully refurbished lecture room

•

20-seater workstations, with keyboard and mouse for each station

•

Interactive whiteboards with accessories (wand and pen)

•

Web Camera HD High-end and stand

•

Instructor PC

•

One data projector

•

One multipurpose printer

•

Offline digitised educational content and interactive learning content for both multimedia centres

•

Antivirus protection

•

Office 365

•

Air conditioner

•

Training on the equipment and digitised content for a minimum of 10 staff members

•

COMPANY DETAILS

30GB data connectivity per month for a period of 24 months for each multimedia centre n

Address: Stand No. 203 Unit A, Sibasa, Limpopo, South Africa Tel: +27 (0) 15 963 7000 Web: vhembecollege.edu.za Email: info@vhembecollege.edu.za Social Media: @VhembeTVETCollege

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 17

BOOMING INDUSTRIES

BY KOKETSO MAMABOLO

BOOMING SECTORS:

Good news for Mining & Broadcasting W

hile the majority of sectors have been struggling to recover from setbacks caused by necessary responses to the pandemic, the mining and broadcasting sectors are two that have managed to do well.

The mining sector saw stunning leaps and lockdowns contributed to more people watching television and streaming content.

MINING SECTOR The mining sector contributed 85% of the R120-million better-than-expected revenue in the first half of the 2021/2022 fiscal year. In October, production increased 2.1 % year-on-year. The biggest positive contributors to production were iron ore, platinum-group metals (PGM) and chromium ore.

Coal was the biggest negative contributor to production. Overall mineral sales increased 4.8% yearon-year with the largest positive contributors being coal and iron ore at 58.5% and 28.4%, respectively.

18 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

“The leadership cooperation between the Minerals Council, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy and organised labour helped the mining sector get back to work after the national lockdown at the beginning of 2020, with all the right preventative and mitigating controls in place thus saving lives and livelihoods in one of the most important economic sectors in the country,” said Roger Baxter, Minerals Council CEO. The Minerals Council’s Chief Economist, Henk Langehoven echoed these sentiments, speaking to Mining Weekly, when reflecting on how the mining sector was impacted by COVID-19: “Mining is doing well at the moment. There’s a very good feeling that’s developed between the companies and their employees, because of how the companies kept paying salaries and tried to keep miners safe during the height of the pandemic.”

“In many ways, we contributed to sustaining lives and livelihoods outside the industry,” added Langehoven. Even within the industry, roughly 5000 jobs were created.

“The combination of better commodity prices and the lowerthan-expected contraction of global demand during the Covid-19 crisis resulted in the value of exports growing at a surprising rate, ending at an estimated 24% higher in 2020 than in 2019.

spent watching television and more hours spent on the internet using subscription video-on-demand services (SVOD), both of which have seen surges over the past two years that point to a new era in television and video. Sports broadcasts took on greater significance as sporting codes around the world hosted their events behind closed doors.

Cinemas also closed, which saw movie viewing shift to streaming platforms and binge watching becoming an everyday part of life.

This compensated for lower production and exports. Export sales by value have continued to grow during 2021, increasing by 54% year-on-year in May.”

Major broadcasters and content producers have had to respond, reviving old content and creating a whole host of new programming for viewers.

A significant part of the export sales have been the platinum group of metals which were bolstered by an increase in global car sales, with South Africa positioned perfectly to take advantage of the demand.

SETTING NEW STANDARDS The start of lockdown saw recordbreaking numbers in terms of average hours spent watching television, for both day and primetime hours.

PRODUCTION, YEAR-ON-YEAR, IN OCTOBER:

In terms of daytime, for three straight months (April, May and June 2020) South Africans watched an average of over 3 hours of television, surpassing all figures from over the previous two years, heights which we have not returned to since lockdown regulations were eased.

• •

Chromium ore increased by 28.7% PGMs rose by 24%

SALES, YEAR-ON-YEAR, IN OCTOBER: • •

Coal rose by 58.5% Copper rose by 28.4%

BROADCASTING SECTOR Millions of South Africans have been spending more time at home since early 2020. Lockdowns kept everyone indoors and the easing of restrictions did not make people less cautious, with many opting to stay indoors as much as possible.

This has come with more hours

time spent. Notably, the public broadcaster still has the biggest pull with many of its productions, particularly those in primetime slots on SABC 1, drawing millions of viewers. Even repeat broadcasts have staggering numbers, reflective of how committed people are to their favourite programs.

Around 7.4 million households have pay-TV subscriptions as of 2021, with R27-billion in revenue generated.

PAY-TV SUBSCRIPTIONS Revenue from Pay-TV subscriptions • •

R27-billion for 2021 R28.8-billion by 2023

Households with Pay-TV Subscriptions • •

7.4-million in 2021 7.8-million in 2023

(Source: PwC Africa Entertainment & Media Outlook 2019 - 2023)

TV & VIDEO REVENUE AND CONSUMER SPENDING Revenue • •

R37.9-billion for 2021 R40.5-billion by 2023

In fact, between May 2018 and February 2021, the closest South Africa came to those figures was an average of 3 hours in September of 2019.

Spending

Primetime numbers tell a similar story, with April and May 2020 bucking the trend of no more than 1 hour and 19 minutes of average

(Sources: PwC Africa Entertainment & Media Outlook 2019 - 2023) engineeringnews.co.za | miningweekly.com statssa.gov.za | treasury.gov.za | brcsa.org.za pwc.com

• •

R30.5-billion for 2021 R32.6-billion by 2023 n

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 19

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BUDGET POLICY FOCUS

BY KOKETSO MAMABOLO

Sifting Through The Numbers Recovery, Stability, Reform and Growth A CRISIS LIKE NO OTHER “This is a crisis like no other,” were the Minister of Finance's words to the nation, when he gave the first Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) of his tenure in office.

Minister Enoch Godongwana’s welcome to parliament as the accounting officer for Treasury could not have come at more of a difficult time. His first MTBPS was also the 25th one tabled to parliament. 2020 saw a 6.4% contraction in GDP, as economic activity was stifled by efforts to combat the spread of the pandemic.

Treasury now expects real growth to sit at 5.1%, 1.8 percentage points up from earlier in the year.

Hon. Gondongwana took over the reins of a department that

has to find a balance between fiscal responsibility and social expenditure while still meeting the goals set out in the National Development Plan.

Creating a competitive energy market will help contain the costs of generating electricity and support GDP growth.

“The 2021 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement is about navigating South Africa’s path to economic and social recovery, drawing on the resilience of her people as well as restoring the sustainability of our public finances and the dignity of our people in the face of a once-ina-lifetime pandemic,” said the Minister.

22 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

The tools the government will use to achieve this include structural reforms and social expenditure policies geared at providing immediate support. The Minister repeated the state’s position on long-term support: “Let me however reiterate that a permanent solution in responding to these challenges is to achieve high and sustained levels of economic growth.”

Beyond structural reforms and spending priorities, the speech was also notable for an update on the review of procurement processes, which will be safeguarded against corruption through the Public Procurement Bill, which is now in its final stages.

“We anticipate that the Bill will be tabled before Parliament in the 2022/23 financial year,” - Minister Godongwana.

Another announcement was regarding retirement reform, which is still in the early stages.

The proposal involves providing access to one part of your contribution before retirement, while the other would be saved until you retire: “On retirement reforms, we are proposing measures to boost household savings by increasing preservation before retirement and to increase flexibility through partial access to retirement funds through a “two-pot” system.”

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY “We cannot do everything we want at the same time.”

In his speech, the Minister lamented more than a decade's worth of expenditure which far exceeded tax revenues. The spending followed the 2008 financial crisis and was aimed at mitigating the effects of the crisis. To fund the spending, the state was taking on debt, a trend Gondongwana, following on from his predecessor Tito Mboweni, are adamant must end. Narrowing the deficit and stabilising debt are high on the agenda. It is hoped that a primary budget surplus will be achieved by 2024/2025.

•

Release of broadband spectrum

•

Third-party access to freight rail network

•

eVisa system roll-out

•

Review of laws governing skilled migration

•

Aggressive infrastructure investment

The first on the list is certainly the most important. Without a reliable supply of energy our economy will continue to stagnate, making the long-term strategy of using GDP growth as a solution to social issues even more difficult.

The increase in the licensing threshold for independent power producers has opened up opportunities for them to sell directly to consumers, which eases pressure on the national grid, lowering the possibility of

more blackouts. “Over the longer term, creating a competitive energy market will help contain the costs of generating electricity and support GDP growth,” said the Minister.

SPENDING PRIORITIES “Overall, the South African government is acknowledged as having one of the most comprehensive and expansive social security systems in the world, and there are ongoing discussions about the social security net.”

The consolidated budget for 2020/2021 is R2.13-trillion. Over the medium-term, debt-service costs are expected to increase by an average of 10.8% over the medium-term, compared to expenditure by function which declines by an annual average of 0.4%. Areas such as education, healthcare, housing, healthcare and social wages, will

STRUCTURAL REFORMS The MTBPS identifies six structural reforms that will be accelerated going into 2022. The reforms are being implemented to “lower the cost of doing business and create a more competitive economy.”

•

Diversification of the energy supply

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 23

average R1.06-trillion per year in expenditure over the next three years. R3-billion in contingency reserve has been allocated for the purchase of vaccines, in addition to the more than 73 million doses procured during the course of 2021.

•

General Public Services: R70.8-billion

•

Payments for financial assets: R68.4-billion

•

Debt Service Costs: R269.2-billion

In response to the social unrest in July, the South African Special Risks Insurance Association (Sasria) has been given R11-billion.

To limit the impact of the crisis on employment, R74-billion has been set aside for government employment programmes.

KEY NUMBERS FROM THE MTBPS

With the end of the Loan Guarantee Scheme, R2.3billion will now be spent on business support services, as the government considers new programmes to assist small businesses in recovering from the pandemic. Higher education has received R56.8-billion in funding this year, with R158.8-billion expected over the 2022 MediumTerm Expenditure Framework (MTEF). Municipalities will receive R450-billion, and transfers to provinces will total R2-trillion over the medium-term.

SPENDING BREAKDOWN •

Learning and culture: R417.8-billion

•

Health: R259-billion

•

Social development: R399.6-billion Community development: R218-billion

• •

Peace and security: R219.3-billion

•

R4-trillion in debt

•

R269.9-billion debt-service costs

•

R1.5-trillion expected tax revenue

•

7.8% consolidated budget deficit

•

R2.13-trillion in consolidated budget

CONCLUSION The Minister concluded his speech with a rallying cry to all stakeholders as the state pursues its mission to recover, obtain stability, reform and grow our economy: “This medium-term policy statement is a call to action. A charge to ourselves to once again renew the promise of a country that many fought for and have sacrificed much.

We must continue to focus on saving lives and livelihoods.

Between now and February 2022 we will be working on the details of measures to deal with the socio-economic challenges we face, especially the crises of unemployment and poverty.

24 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

This must be done in a manner that does not depart from the strategy of stabilizing government debt. Recommendations in this regard will depend on the availability of resources, including policy trade-offs and reprioritisation.” n

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SA HOLIDAY GUIDE

BY CHARNDRÉ EMMA KIPPIE

5 Things To Do in SA This Festive Season The weather is warmer and offices are locking up for the year: what will you be getting up to these holidays?

I

t’s been a hectic year for all South Africans as we faced multiple waves of the COVID-19 virus (with its many variants), travel bans and ‘red status’, and major economic shifts. As we ring in the festive season, it may be hard to not let these negative factors put a damper on our plans.

However, we must remember to express our gratitude for this time off, and use this period to spend quality time with the ones we love. COVID-19 has led to many restrictions on social activities and get-togethers. We’ve put together a list of simple yet super fun activities that you can safely do just about anywhere in South Africa. Just remember to follow all COVID-19 protocols and stay safe along the way...

PLACES TO PLAN FOR: •

Durban: The majestic Drakensberg (Dragon Mountains) could be great for a group hike.

•

Port Elizabeth: Surfers can enjoy top spots such as Jeffrey’s Bay and St. Francis Bay.

•

Cape Town: Go kayaking with the penguins in Simon’s Town or tour the Cape Peninsula.

•

Johannesburg: Visit the Cradle of Humankind or check out some awesome township tours.

•

Northern Cape: Disconnect and reconnect in the desert lands while you windsurf and enjoy game viewing.

GET OUTSIDE AND ENJOY NATURE! We may need to social distance, but this doesn’t stop us from enjoying the amazing offerings of South Africa’s gorgeous fauna and flora. Get outside and enjoy the warmer days by planning a hike with close friends and family, have a picnic in a mesmerising floral paradise, or go and visit a popular national park or heritage site.

26 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

TAKE YOUR TASTE-BUDS ON A JOURNEY The holidays are perfect for indulging tantalise your taste buds with local dishes and trending delicacies. South Africa is a wonderland for foodies alike, providing everything from sweet to blended flavours and food preparation techniques.

With so much variety to choose from, you really don’t have an excuse to not try something new this festive season.

RECOMMENDED FOOD EXPERIENCES IN SOUTH AFRICA: • Maximillien restaurant at the DaVinci Hotel, Sandton, Johannesburg •

Restaurant Klein JAN, Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, Van Zylsru

•

9th Avenue Bistro, Maritime Place, Durban

•

Grazia Fine Food and Wine, East London

•

The Hat & Creek, Hoedspruit, Limpopo

is truly an awe-inspiring experience. Use this opportunity to go out for sundowners this summer. There may even be amazing photo opportunities while you’re out, since seeing mixologists are always upping their presentation game.

WHERE TO FIND THE BEST COCKTAILS IN SA:

GO SUNSET SIPPING There’s nothing quite like a sunset in South Africa. We as South African citizens are so blessed as our skies are known to put on jaw dropping displays, come sundown.

All over the country, people take some time to appreciate this, not taking it for granted.

Watching the sun dip below the horizon

•

Sin + Tax - Rosebank, Johannesburg

•

Orphanage Cocktail Emporium - Cape Town

•

The Charlatan Neighbourhood Cocktail Bar in Berea, Durban

•

Infinity Cocktail Bar and Eatery - Algoa Park, Gqeberha

•

SandBar - Umdloti Beach, KZN

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 27

COOL BEACHES IN SA:

SEASIDE FUN AND SUNSHINE It wouldn’t be a holiday without our lovely beaches across the country. Now is the perfect time to get that tan you’ve always wanted or attend a beach party (hopefully one that is COVID friendly). If you’re family orientated, however, you can plan a beach picnic with the kids and enjoy building sand castles.

FEELING INSPIRED? GET CREATIVE! If you’re looking to avoid large crowds and too much time baking in the sun, then maybe taking an arts and crafts approach might suit you better. Set time aside to learn a new hobby like pottery or painting, and if you feel a tad bit intimidated, there are plenty of professional creatives who are offering workshops and practical sessions to assist you with letting your creative juices flow.

28 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

•

Robberg Beach - Garden Route

•

Kraalbaai - West Coast National Park

•

Camps Bay Beach - Cape Town

•

Llandudno Beach - Cape Town

•

Thonga Beach - KwaZulu-Natal

•

Gonubie Beach - Eastern Cape

•

Kogel Bay Beach - East Coast

•

Coffee Bay - Wild Coast

CRAFTY BUCKET LIST FOR SOUTH AFRICANS •

Color Café: Ceramic Painting in Johannesburg

•

Art Jamming: Painting galore at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town

•

The Social Pallet: Fun art classes for kids in Westville, KwaZulu-Natal

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 29

AVBOB:

Caring where it counts Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.

With these words, former president Nelson Mandela, highlighted the importance of education in restoring dreams and communities and building a nation – a gift that keeps on giving and is worth celebrating. With more than a century in business, AVBOB has established a people-centred shared value model that’s rooted in building trust and bringing solutions to societal challenges in difficult times.

Recognising the wide disparity of income and inequality in South Africa and the responsibility of the organisation to all citizens, AVBOB is invested in connectedness through caring and sharing. As education makes for a meaningful, generational investment in empowering communities, AVBOB has made this mission its national flagship project through a number of strategic interventions in the learning space.

Frik Rademan, AVBOB Board Member; Angie Motsheka, Minister of Basic Education and Carl van der Riet, AVBOB CEO

30 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

With the launch of the Container Library Project in 2013, AVBOB committed to delivering 60 fully stocked libraries to underprivileged schools across South Africa. To date, AVBOB has donated 57 container libraries to both rural and urban schools.

Unveiling a new school chapter On Mandela Day in July 2017, AVBOB announced its partnership with the Department of Basic Education toward the renovation, refurbishment and upgrading of schools across the country.

AVBOB pledged to invest R150 million in this project, known as the AVBOB Schools Infrastructure Project. R15 million of this investment was set aside for the Sanitation Appropriate for Education (SAFE) project.

The AVBOB Schools Infrastructure Project is aligned with the Department of Basic Education’s Accelerated School Infrastructure Delivery Initiative. AVBOB CEO, Mr Carl van der Riet, explained during the Joe Solomon Primary School unveiling in October 2021 that the organisation’s pledge toward the refurbishment and upgrading of schools across the country, speaks of a devotion and determination to expand investment in the education sector beyond AVBOB’s Container Library Project.

“It is my hope that the learners of the school will draw inspiration from this story – that great achievements can emerge from this community and from the city of Bloemfontein. Every single one of the learners has tremendous potential. And it is our responsibility, as parents, educators, government and the corporate sector to develop that through the education that they will be receiving here,” Van der Riet said.

Joe Solomon Primary School in Bloemfontein is the first of the selected schools to be completed. The first task of the construction project was to demolish the old school building, safely discard all hazardous material and prepare to rebuild from scratch. Rebuilding the school took over three years and included 4 235m² of new school infrastructure: laboratories, classrooms, computer rooms and ablution facilities.

Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga and Mr van der Riet, officially unveiled the newly upgraded Joe Solomon Primary School. Minister Motshekga has praised AVBOB for its commitment to education and described its Schools Infrastructure Project as the largest investment in education made by a single company in the history of South Africa.

“The school infrastructure investment contributed to our quest to replace schools built with inappropriate structures (asbestos classrooms) with fit-for-purpose, state-of-the-art buildings that boast modern laboratories. The school now boasts brand new state-of-the-art centres including a brand-new nutrition centre, media centres and cutting-edge science and computer laboratories,” said Minister Motshekga.

A firm focus on the future The Group’s shared value mutual model is the cornerstone of its unique value proposition, which creates tangible economic wealth and benefits for its members. AVBOB believes that part of its responsibility as a corporate citizen is to help ensure a better future for South Africa by contributing to the economic empowerment of previously disadvantaged communities. As part of this commitment to B-BBEE, the Group has set aside

On 15 October 2021, Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga; AVBOB CEO, Carl van der Riet and Board Member, Frik Rademan officially unveiled the upgraded Joe Solomon Primary School

R150 million for the development of suppliers. Contributing to the sustainability of the world to manage the relationship between business, society and the environment is vital for the Group.

AVBOB continues to support community projects, sponsor cultural and education events, and provide disaster relief by means of financial contributions. In July 2021, many small, uninsured businesses were destroyed during the civil unrest, which left many owners and employees without recourse.

Recognising their urgent need for assistance, AVBOB established the R10 million, AVBOB Disaster Relief Fund, through which the Group assisted affected beneficiaries.

Notable achievements of the AVBOB Group • • • • • • •

Winner of the Funeral Cover category in the 2020/2021 Ask Afrika Icon Brands Survey – July 2020.

PMR.africa Diamond Arrow 2020 award in the category Business Sector: Funeral Service and Insurance KwaZulu-Natal – August 2020.

Industry Winner in the Funeral/Burial Services category in the 2020/2021 Ask Afrika Orange Index® benchmark – October 2020.

Gold Winner in Die Burger’s 2020 Jou Keuse (Your Choice) competition, in the category Best Funeral Service in the Western Cape – October 2020.

The AVBOB Poetry Project and AVBOB’s partner agency, won leader awards in three categories of the Assegai Awards – November 2020.

In November 2020, the Group was certified as a Top Employer through the Top Employers Institute (TEI) for the fourth consecutive year.

Winner of the Funeral Cover category as measured in the 2020/2021 Ask Afrika Kasi Star Brands Survey – June 2021.

AVBOB has been in existence for 103 years and has become the largest mutual assurance society in Africa, a leader in the funeral insurance and funeral services industry and remains one of South Africa’s celebrated heritage brands.

AVBOB is an authorised Financial Services Provider. AVBOB is a level 2 B-BBEE contributor. FSP 20656.

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 31

GIVING BACK

BY KOKETSO MAMABOLO

How you can do good this festive season Organisation to assist during the holidays

T

here are a wide array of organisations, filled with incredible people who dedicate their time to assisting the countless people and animals who experience poverty, abuse and distress.

From shelters for the homeless, safe havens for abused and neglected animals, to feeding schemes based on parcels and vouchers, there’s always some way to help others, especially during the festive season when the contrast between the haves and the have-nots is most clear.

Here we highlight some of the organisations who can help you help others this holiday season, and beyond.

DONATE BLOOD The festive season unfortunately brings with it an increase in accidents on our roads as people go on holiday.

Whilst you can do your part to keep our roads safe by driving carefully and drinking responsibly, donating blood is a great way to play your part in saving lives.

The South African National

32 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

Blood Service is a not-for-profit organisation that operates all around the country, except for the Western Cape. Anyone between the ages of 16 and 75 can donate if their blood is safe for transfusion.

You must weigh a minimum of 50kg and a screening test is conducted, to check if blood pressure and haemoglobin levels fall in the range for a safe donation. Head over to the SANBS website, sanbs.org.za, or call them on 0800 119 031 to become a donor.

UNCHAIN OUR CHILDREN With gender-based violence at untenable levels, offering support to organisations that are working to protect women and children is a great way to do something good in the festive season, and beyond. Unchain Our Children is one of the organisations working tirelessly.

“Unchain our Children endeavors to assist in the combat against child prostitution, child abuse, and other violations on human rights by means direct intervention, recovery of missing and exploited children, counseling of individuals at risk and conducting initiatives to lower the current occurring incidences of abuse/exploitation.”

Get involved by heading over their website, unchainourchildren. org.za, or email them at info@ unchainourchildren.org.za THE BROCCOLI PROJECT The Broccoli Project’s retail charity vouchers give you an opportunity to buy food for those in need through your local supermarket.

The vouchers are available at Pick ‘n Pay and Shoprite-Checkers stores. Giving responsibly is the project’s objective, offering vouchers that are trackable, all the way from where they were purchased to the time and date where they are redeemed.

Donors can rest assured that 100% of their donation is going to the intended recipient. The vouchers can be exchanged for food and clothing only.

STREETSMART SOUTH AFRICA Starting in the UK almost two decades ago, StreetSmart is geared towards children living on the streets. A request was granted to bring the project to South Africa. They raise funds to assist children already on the streets, but they also have initiatives that work with vulnerable children to avoid them also landing in the streets.

“The funds raised go towards family reunification, education and skills training programmes for street children, and children at risk of becoming street children.

Funding programmes of this kind assist street children to normalise their lives and live a viable life in society,” says the organisation.

Find out more on their website streetsmartsa.org.za, call at 021 447 3227 or mail on info@ streetsmartsa.org.za TEARS Adopt or foster a pet. TEARS has a lovely program which allows you to adopt or foster a cat or dog. All the pets taken in by TEARS were treated badly or neglected in their previous homes.

“Adopting a rescued cat or kitten from TEARS won’t only change your life in all the best ways, it also frees up a space for another cat to be rescued,” says the TEARS site. The same applies to the dogs that can be adopted for a modest fee. Visit the TEARS website at tears.org.za, call at 021 785 4482, or email them at tears@tears.org.za .

OTHER PLACES TO DONATE AND VOLUNTEER

Hope Risen Foundation: Help end modern day slavery and exploitation - Visit hoperisen.org, call at 076 409 7272 or email info@ hoperisen.org.za South African Federation for Mental Health: Visit safmh. org.za, call at +27 (0) 11 781 1852 or email info@safmh.org.za The Haven Night Shelter: Find out how you can help the homeless in Cape Town. Visit haven.org. za, call +27 (21) 425 4700, or email info@ haven.org.za Mould Empower Serve (MES): Change the heart of the city with MES. Visit mes.org.za, call +27 11 725 6531, email info@mes.org.za Ladles of Love: Volunteer at soup kitchens with Ladles of Love. Visit ladlesoflove.org.za, call +27212011244, or email info@ ladlesoflove.org.za n

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 33

SAFETY FIRST

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Staying safe during the festive season WATER SAFETY: KEEPING YOUR FAMILY SAFE THIS SUMMER Summer holidays are best spent making memories in the sun, often gathered around a pool or at the beach.

But these areas can prove deadly for children, especially if they have not been taught the basics of water safety. According to Statistics South Africa, fatal drowning is the fifth leading cause of unintentional death. Every year, an estimated 600 children die by drowning. The World Health Organisation estimates that around two-thirds of drownings take place in summer.

drownings in South Africa are children under 14.

"We cannot afford to ignore the perils of drowning – and the value of water safety measures. On average, there are approximately 1 484 drownings in South Africa annually, of which 29% (450) occur among children under 14 years," says NSRI Head of Drowning Prevention Andrew Ingram.

Crowded pools and beaches, as well as a lack of adult supervision, can quickly turn a fun family holiday into a tragedy. But there are simple measures to follow to keep your family safe around water this festive season.

The provinces with the highest number of drowning incidents are KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Gauteng. And while swimming in the ocean can see children swept away by currents or caught under waves, dams, rivers and swimming pools also pose a danger to little ones. In fact, 95% of drownings occur in freshwater, and a third of all the children under the age of five who drown do so in swimming pools.

THE SILENT KILLER According to the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), 29% of fatal

"Many of these fatal drownings could be prevented if there was a responsible, able-bodied person

34 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

watching the children when they are in or near water and if they were able to recognise the signs of drowning," says Ingram.

"When people are drowning, all of their energy is going into trying to breathe and staying above water. They are not yelling for help or waving their hands around.

Drowning is often quick and very silent".

Ingram urges parents and caregivers to be vigilant when their children are near water.

"Most drownings of children under five years of age are at, or near, their home," says Ingram. While large bodies of water pose a risk to children, small children can be at risk from as little as four centimetres of water.

STEP UP YOUR SAFETY MEASURES One way to prevent drowning is to secure areas with water. This includes items such as pool covers, latches on doors and removing even small containers of water that a child could access.

This means that bathtubs of water, toilets, fishponds, buckets of water and even pet water bowls could all prove fatal to a small child. This is why parents should be aware of their surroundings and their child's whereabouts at all times.

Particular attention should be paid to washing basins, baths, dams, rivers and swimming pools.

"Small children should not be able to get close to these dangers alone without responsible adult supervision.

Older children should also be reminded of the dangers that they face near water," says Ingram.

Another way to prevent drowning is to teach children about water safety. This includes rules such as no running around water, avoiding fast flowing water and never swimming without adult supervision. It's also a good idea for people of all ages to have swimming lessons.

Response time in cases of drowning is critical. Should a child go missing, immediately check pools and other water sources. The child's survival rests on a quick rescue and restarting breathing as soon as possible.

Should you find a child in water, immediately contact emergency services and bring CPR – a skill that all parents and caregivers should learn.

"The old adage of 'prevention is better than cure' couldn't ring more true when it comes to drowning.

With drowning, it is often not possible to 'cure' the damage done. Prevention, therefore, is a major focus area for the NSRI, the only maritime rescue service operating in Southern African waters," adds Ingram.

WARNING SIGNS OF DROWNING Drowning is often quick and silent, with the person who is in difficulty unable to call for help or wave.

The NSRI recommends parents and caregivers be aware of the following signs of drowning: •

The swimmer is struggling to keep their face above the water to breathe. This means their head will be low in the water, tilted back, with their mouth at water level.

•

The person in difficulty's body is in a vertical or upright position.

They will also have no supportive kick, appearing as if they are bobbing.

•

The swimmer has their arms extended to the side, pressing down for support.

•

Signs of struggle underwater, but without making any headway, often while facing the nearest point of safety (such as land, a person, or shallow water)

•

Panicked or wide eyes, which glassy and are unable to focus

•

The inability to respond to the question: "Are you okay?"

THREE WAYS TO PREVENT DROWNING

To keep your children safe around water, follow these guidelines:

Always ensure there is adult supervision by a responsible adult when children are swimming or playing around water. At crowded family events, it's a good idea to have an item – such as a bracelet or lanyard – to pass between adults so that everyone knows who is supervising the children.

Teach your children how to swim and what to do if they fall in a pool.

Age-appropriate lessons will teach children these skills if you are not confident to teach them yourself.

Contact the NSRI to learn more about their water safety education programmes.

Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and rescue techniques. It's essential to act quickly in drowning cases, and CPR skills could save a life. Other basic first aid skills are also essential, especially if the child has bumped their head.

You should also be prepared for an emergency by ensuring you have emergency contact numbers stored on your cellphone of easily accessible in your home. n

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 35

ROAD SAFETY

BY CHARNDRÉ EMMA KIPPIE

Be Aware - Let us all Phepha!

As the saying goes: Slow and steady wins the race which is exactly what the Transport Education Training Authority hopes to emphasise this season.

I

t’s that time of year where, unfortunately, there is an upward surge in incidents of road accidents and consequential deaths. As businesses shut down for the festive season, closing for the year and getting ready for a well-deserved holiday, many families embark on summer holiday adventures. The sad reality, though, is that every year we experience so many road fatalities during this period.

36 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

THE LAUNCH OF THE PHEPHA CAMPAIGN As a result of previous annual road accident trends, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, has seen the launch of the Phepha Campaign (which loosely translates to ‘be safe’ in isiZulu), at the Wanderers taxi rank, in early December. This particular road safety campaign is geared towards keeping citizens aware and fully conscious of road safety as many travel to

destinations across the country.

Maphefo Anno-Frempong, the current CEO of the Transport Education Training Authority, commented on the Phepha campaign, stating that it was one multiple road safety campaign being embarked on throughout 2021, in order to highlight and encourage allround safety amongst drivers (and even passengers).

“We have initiated the Phepha campaign specifically to target road users during the busy festive season, when many people are travelling in and out of Gauteng”, Anno-Frempong said.

“Furthermore, we want to encourage road users who will be celebrating their yearend festivities to make simple changes in their behaviour on the roads so that they enjoy celebrations safely.”

“We enquired why deaths on the road seem to reach a pinnacle over this period – is it because of congestion on the roads, or perhaps people are more focused on getting to where they are headed in a rush and forgoing safe road usage”, said Anno-Frempong.

“We will be rolling out a series of Phepha activations during December, January and February. During the activations, our promotions team will be informing people about road safety while injecting a bit of fun into the experience. These activations will take place at taxi ranks, malls and other similar locations in Gauteng.”

TARGETING COMMUTERS The Wanderers taxi rank was selected as the best launch location for the campaign as many locals use this form of transportation, whether it be for going to work and school early in the morning, or travelling for short (and longer) periods of time via taxi.

“We chose the taxi rank because we wanted to reach the high volume of commuters that you find at a taxi rank, especially in the early morning, when people are going to work and school,” Anno-Frempong explained.

“Taxi ranks offer a captive audience of commuters and taxi drivers who are travelling for short and long distances across our country.”

COVID-19 also presents additional challenges for road safety initiatives, which this particular campaign hopes to highlight.

The launch was attended by local actors such as Hamilton Dlamini, Lebohang Lettie Myanana and Mduduzi Mabaso, who acted as ambassadors for the campaign’s success.

At the end of the day, both drivers and pedestrians need to practice safer road safety protocols in South Africa. By eliminating bad habits such as texting and driving, or drinking under the influence for that matter, you can play your part in lowering the devastating statistics that hant our nation.

ARRIVE ALIVE: TOP 10 ROAD SAFETY TIPS Obey the rules of the road and carry your driver’s licence with you.

Plan the route to your holiday destination and allow yourself enough time to reach the destination.

Make sure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition before departure. All lights and indicators, windscreens, windscreen wipers, brakes, steering, shock absorbers, exhaust system and tyres should be carefully examined for faults.

Always wear your seat belt and see that everyone in the car is wearing theirs.

Try to avoid driving after dark if possible.

Take safety breaks every 2 hours or 200km. Rest, have an energy drink and continue once well-rested.

Do not drink and drive!

Try to recognise potentially dangerous drivers and pedestrians alongside the road and keep well clear of them.

Avoid distractions on the road such as texting, conversations on cellular phones etc.

Know your emergency numbers - keep a copy in your vehicle. n

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 37

INTERVIEW: ONYX MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

BY CHARNDRÉ EMMA KIPPIE

Yasmin George

SALES DIRECTOR FOR ONYX MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS ONYX MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS (ONYXMS) IS A 100% BLACK WOMAN OWNED SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT AND TESTING SERVICES PROVIDER. AT ITS CORE, WHAT IS THE ‘WHY’ OF YOUR COMPANY? WHY ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR SERVICE OFFERING? I’ve been in IT sales for more than 20 years. When I joined a Cyber Security company a few years ago, little did I know that it was going to ignite a passion within me for the field of Cyber Security as a whole. I quickly realised that I wanted to make a difference and impact people’s lives. Hence, my journey into the ‘Cyber World’ began.

OnyxMS came into my life when I was at a crossroads, deciding on my future in corporate. This was, however, the perfect opportunity for me as I now had a chance of working for a SMME and growing the Cyber portfolio at OnyxMS. I believe that successful companies allow their employees to make mistakes, figure things out and learn as the go. This allows us to solve problems without breaking their spirit and drive. OnyxMS is such a company, where we reward and celebrate successes while encouraging our employees to stretch their skills and their capabilities.

I am passionate about Cyber Security because I never feel that the work I am doing is unnecessary. In this new age, cybercrime and cyber security are constantly evolving, and staying ahead of criminal activity is a big part of the job. I feel good knowing that I am helping to protect companies, our people’s livelihoods and their privacy. I am passionate about Cyber Security because I never feel that the work I am doing is unnecessary. In this new age, cybercrime and cyber security are constantly evolving, and staying ahead of criminal activity is a big part of the job. I feel good knowing that I am helping to protect companies, our people’s livelihoods and their privacy.

WITH ANY TYPE OF SOFTWARE THERE WILL BE A NEED FOR RISK MANAGEMENT. WHAT RISKS SHOULD BUSINESS OWNERS BE MORE MINDFUL OF IN THIS DAY AND AGE? The top threats facing businesses today are focused mainly on awareness. So things like phishing, malware, ransomware etc. are the most common threats. Business owners should focus on these, as well as employee training, staying alert and not having the “it will not happen to us “ mentality.

38 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

CYBERSECURITY HAS BECOME QUITE THE ‘BUZZ WORD’ IN RECENT MONTHS. WHY DO YOU THINK THIS IS? The pandemic brought about a lot of change in the IT world. It has also caused major issues and disruptions with businesses having to gear up and get their employees to work remotely. This obviously brought about several vulnerabilities as well as an opportunity for threat actors i.e. hackers. Business owners and CISO’s now have to ensure that their IT landscape and environments stay protected, so Cyber Security became a hot topic overnight and will be relevant for years to come.

CYBER SECURITY SERVICES ARE YOUR SPECIALITY. PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS STRATEGY WHEN IT COMES TO THIS SERVICE. With the world becoming more interconnected, new threats and vulnerabilities are emerging daily, and this means that attack surfaces are being widened. Employeews these days can be tracked easily from their smart devices, their cars, and even things like hearing aids and pacemakers, leaving them vulnerable. It is assumed, Cyber security’s main function is to reduce risk by removing dangers posed by viruses and hackers, so part of our strategy is to reposition cyber security to stakeholders. It is usually seen as a grudge purchase, pretty much like an insurance policy, you only need it after a major incident or event.

Recent events in the media across the globe have shown that the mindset needs to change drastically in terms of securing our environments.

Not even the biggest financial institutes have been safe from these attacks which have crippled both the company and subsequently economies. So, the need to be agile and embed these security gates

at the outset will better equip our clients in the face of these threats.

The strategy therefore becomes effective when cyber-security enhances customer experience and product integrity. This allows the client to safeguard their brand & reputation through robust operations, governance, and compliance whilst protected.

WHAT 3 TIPS DO YOU HAVE FOR BUSINESSES TO UP THEIR CYBERSECURITY GAME AND PROTECT THEIR ASSETS? In my opinion, one of the most common data breaches is identity theft; things like multi-factor authentication, being cautious, conscious awareness of links and using a password manager would be first prize.

WHAT EMERGING CYBERSECURITY TRENDS SHOULD BUSINESSES BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR IN 2022?

There will be a lot more focus on social engineering, the growing use of IOT (internet of things) and financial fraud.

These trends will be more highlighted in the next year due to things like automotive hacking, targeted ransomware and insider threats which is almost a given. Let’s also not forget the latest buzz of the fourth industrial revolution of AI and Machine Learning.

This opens a whole new sphere of opportunity and attack surfaces.

DO YOU PROVIDE ANY CYBERSECURITY LEARNING PROGRAMMES AT ONYXMS? Our in-house programmes include Cyber Fundamentals, Cyber Awareness and Phishing programmes. This keeps us abreast of and enhances both the team’s knowledge as well as our clients who take this journey with us. These training offerings are also included in our graduate programme that has just been launched.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG PEOPLE LOOKING TO PURSUE A CAREER IN THE FIELD OF CYBERSECURITY? •

First rule of Cybersecurity: Buy A Hoodie!

•

The Cyber security field is booming and the possibilities are endless. With this being such a niche scarce skill, there is huge demand for cyber security skills not only in SA but across the globe.

•

We have seen an increase of almost 3 times more requests and requirements than the rest of the IT field.

•

The world has changed as we know it, being passionate about technology isn’t enough anymore.

We need to understand that the threats to both our livelihood and economy are real and us knowing about the latest security trends and safety measures is a big plus.

•

To the young people out there, just think that you are entering a field that not only would safeguard YOU personally but your company and even possibly your country. n

CONTACT: Address: 57 Sloane Street, The Campus, Wrigley Field, Ground Floor, Bryanston, 2021 Email: info@onyxcorp.africa Phone: 010 020 1681

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 39

CYBERCRIME IN FOCUS

BY CHARNDRÉ EMMA KIPPIE

ACTION AGAINST

Cybercrime Here are a few tips on how you can avoid Cyber Fraud

I

nternational Fraud Awareness Week takes place between 15-21 November annually. This commemoration encourages organisations, businesses and individuals to proactively take the necessary precautions to minimise the devastating impact of fraud by promoting anti-fraud awareness and education.

Raising awareness on fraud is essential, as organisations around the world are currently losing an estimated 5%of their annual revenues as a result of cybercrimes and cyber fraud — according to the 2020 ACFE Report to the Nations. In light of International Fraud Week, it is an optimal time to address cybercrimes, especially cyber fraud.

WHAT IS CYBER FRAUD? Cyber fraud is a crime committed by way of utilising a computer/ electronic device with the intent to corrupt another individual's

personal and financial data, which has been stored online. This type of data can be used by a cyber fraud perpetrator to financially fund themselves, or they might intend to use this money to fund illegal activities.

WHERE DO WE STAND? This particular type of cybercrime may harm someone's overall security and reputation as well.

And one way for this crime to be committed is through the use of ransomware.

Ransomware is everywhere and just about anyone can fall prey to this type of attack. Research has shown that throughout the first half of 2021, Africa accounted for 1,7% of ransomware attacks worldwide.

South Africa made up 1,05% of these recorded attacks. This indicates that only 0,65% of the total recorded attacks were actually against users in other

40 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 54 | Public Sector Leaders | November 2021

parts of the African continent — Trend Micro’s midyear Cybersecurity Report 2021.

The Trend Micro’s midyear Cybersecurity Report also highlighted a 47% year-on-year surge in email threats, as well as malicious files and URLs.

We were able to sustain our operations by continuously innovating, implementing robust turnaround strategies “Pre-pandemic, when most of the workforce was office-based, it was easier to secure endpoints and a company’s data centre.

Traditional perimeter security has disappeared. It is now found wherever your workforce is located – at their homes, in hotel rooms, coffee shops or coworking spaces. Now, the task requires moving workloads to the cloud and securing every employee,

their homes and personal mobile devices, all of which have become companies’ new data centres,” explained Zaheer Ebrahim, Cybersecurity Consultant at Trend Micro.

“As cybersecurity threats continue to increase in frequency and sophistication, Security Operations Center (SOC) teams must streamline their security processes without sacrificing reliability. One way to do that is through Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), which continually monitors and responds to mitigate cyber threats.

EDR acts like a CCTV camera that records all the activities that occur at an endpoint. While it might not be able to prevent a cybersecurity threat, it can playback the breach to strengthen cybersecurity retrospectively and secure any vulnerabilities from future attacks”, Ebrahim concluded.

LAYING DOWN THE LAW New laws documented in the Cybercrimes Act 19 of 2020, are bringing South Africa up to speed in terms of international standards for fighting cybercrime. A spike in global internet-based offences has been acknowledged this year.

This has been due to the workfrom-home trend which came into play as a result of the global Covid-19 pandemic. Thus, there is no surprise why these laws have been updated.

Mashabane — Director-General in the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and South Africa’s former Cyber Envoy to the United Nations. In addition to the Cybercrimes Act, the Protection of Personal Information Agreement (POPIA) Act 2020, is also now in play. Together, these two strategies play a key part in South Africa’s defence against cybercrime.

However, if we continue to enact new domestic legislation, our nation will convey a critical message to the world of its steadfast commitment to laying down the law and combating cybercrime, especially in relation to cyber fraud.

Advocate Mashabane has also indicated that the Cybercrimes Act will further “bolster our engagement at diplomatic and multilateral platforms with a view to developing a global framework on cybercrimes and cyber security.”

•

Define offences which have a bearing on cybercrime;

•

Criminalise the disclosure of data messages which are harmful and to provide for interim protection orders

•

Further regulate jurisdiction in respect of cybercrimes

•

Further regulate the powers to investigate cybercrimes

•

Further regulate aspects relating to mutual assistance in respect of the investigation of cybercrimes

South Africa does, however, stand as a major player internationally, contributing to multiple UN forums geared towards coming up with the best recommendations for how to govern cyberspace efficiently.

It is an ambitious mission to successfully complete.

THE CYBERCRIMES ACT 19 OF 2020 INTENDS TO:

Our Cybercrimes Act has been described as “a groundbreaking and decisive step in the country’s cyber governance and policy space”, by Advocate Doctor

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 41 Public Sector Leaders | November 2021 | 55

42 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

ADVANCED CYBER SECURITY FOR YOUR BUSINESS For more than 30 years, ESET® has been developing industry-leading IT security software and services. Over 400,000 businesses and 110m users worldwide rely on us to deliver reliable, comprehensive protection.

SECURE YOUR BUSINESS DATA, WITH ESET

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 43

ETHE

CAPE TOWN TSHW ANE JOHAN NESBURG

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

NELSON MANDELA BAY

NEW MAYOR FOCUS

Post Local Government Elections The game was on for selecting mayors in the metros!

F

ollowing the political shakeup that came with the Local Government Elections on 1 November, power dynamics in the country's major municipalities have been decided through coalitions and bloc voting. The elections saw a drop in voter turnout and a decrease in support for leading parties, resulting in 68 hung councils out of the 213 municipalities in the country.

44 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

In the battle for the title of mayor in the country's key municipalities, the DA walked away with more than half of South Africa's coveted metropolitan municipalities. While the ANC retained control of eThekwini and Nelson Mandela Bay, the DA is incharge of municipalities such as Johannesburg, Tshwane and Cape Town, thanks to support from smaller parties.

KWIN

Heading up the City of Cape Town is the Democratic Alliance (DA)'s Geordin Hill-Lewis.

Mayor Hill-Lewis is officially the youngest mayor to hold office in Cape Town.

Mayor Hill-Lewis moves to the local government sphere after serving in Parliament for more than a decade. He previously served as the DA's shadow minister for Finance and as shadow minister for Trade and Industry.

On joining Parliament in 2011, Mayor Hill-Lewis was the youngest MP to be elected since 1994. Mayor Hill-Lewis has also previously served as chief-of-staff to the then leader of the Democratic Alliance and Premier of the Western Cape, Helen Zille. He became involved in politics as a student while studying at the University of Cape Town and, while there, launched the DA's first student branch.

He went on to complete a master's degree in Finance at the University of London. The DA won the most votes in Cape Town during the local government elections, having secured 58%. This is the fourth time the party has secured the ruling majority in the City.

Mayor Hill-Lewis received 141 votes, with the ANC's Noluthando Makasi receiving 46 and Cape Independence Party's Jack Miller receiving two. There were 15 spoilt

Mayor Williams was elected as mayor of Tshwane on 30 October 2020. Just over a year later the DA candidate ran unopposed for the seat following the local government elections in November. Mayor Williams received support from both ActionSA and the EFF, tipping the scales in the DA’s favour in a hung council.

Retaining his seat as mayor in the City of Tshwane is a long-standing councillor, and seasoned politician, Randall Williams.

Following the election, the DA won 32.03% of the vote (69 seats). The ANC won 34.63% (75 seats), while ActionSA won 8.64% (19 seats) and the EFF won 10.69% (23 seats). ANC

ballots and 20 abstentions.

"It is the single greatest honour of my life to be officially elected as the mayor of the City of Cape Town. Thank you for placing your faith in me. I will make sure this faith has not been misplaced.

Now, our work starts to make Cape Town a beacon of hope for SA," he said in a social media post.

During his inaugural speech, Mayor Hill-Lewis said he planned to address critical areas such as releasing public land for housing, taking over the rail network, and electricity supply to the City, and increasing free basic services.

He announced this would take the form of an increase to the City's allocation to free basic services by over R600-million in the next financial year.

This is the equivalent of a 20% increase in the City's investment in free basic services, which assist vulnerable residents.

councillors in Tshwane chose not to participate in the election process, except to express their disagreement.

The support was not surprising after ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba said the party would vote for a DA mayor in Tshwane to avoid the alternative of an ANC run council. The ActionSA leader said the party would work with the DA in "the interests of service delivery, fighting corruption and job creation", something that had been demonstrated through their voting.

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 45

However, the two parties do not have a formal agreement.The EFF's voting also appears to have been against the ANC, instead of for the DA. Mayor Williams said: "I would like to thank Tshwane residents for strengthening our country's democracy.

I accept the role of Executive Mayor with deep gratitude and humility, and I am encouraged by

the faith that has been placed in me to once again lead our great city."

The mayor hails from the Cape Flats, in Cape Town, and completed a Master of Law degree in International Investment and Trade Law from Stellenbosch University. Before he was appointed mayor in 2020, he served on the council as the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Economic

taking control of the metro.

The local government elections left Johannesburg with a hung council after the ANC secured 33.6% of the votes, and the DA 26%.

Gauteng's economic powerhouse received its first female mayor after Dr. Mpho Phalatse was voted into the role following the local government elections.

The DA candidate takes control from outgoing ANC mayor Mpho Moerane.

Mayor Phalatse won by 23 votes to secure leadership of the hung council. The DA takes up the mayor’s seat thanks to votes from ActionSA and the EFF, who voted in favour of the party to prevent the ANC from

Mayor Phalatse began undergraduate studies at the University of Witwatersrand, in Chemical Engineering, in 1995 but changed direction after realising she wanted to focus on a more peoplecentred career. This led her to complete a degree in medicine, which she obtained in 2005.

She completed service at a number of hospitals and clinics in Gauteng before focusing on project management and exploring service delivery models.

Mayor Phalatse has experience running a disability consulting services company; working as a casualty officer at the Alexandra Community Health Centre; a sexual assault care

46 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

Development and Spatial Planning. He has previously held the position of Chairperson of the Municipal Appeals Tribunal between 2016 to 2019.

Mayor Williams has other government experience, having worked for the Department of Trade and Industry in the International Trade and Economic Development Unit, as Chief Director of Trade Policy and Negotiations.

practitioner; and has served on the Professional Conduct Committee of the Health Professions Council of South Africa. She served as a DA PR councillor before taking up the appointment of Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Health and Social Development.

As MMC, Mayor Phalatse championed the extension of service hours in clinics, as well as the City of Johannesburg's multi-pronged substance abuse prevention and treatment strategy.

She also has a career in corporate coaching through the Global Institute for Organizational Coaching, where she focuses on mentoring and coaching young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Mayor Phalatse has committed to creating stability in the city, vowing that the coalition government will not fail as in the past.

polls. Following the election, the DA secured 39,92% of the vote (48 seats), while the ANC secured the same number of seats with 39.43% of the votes.

ANC candidate Eugene Johnson has taken the mayor's seat in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, narrowly beating the DA's candidate.

Mayor Johnson secured 60 votes, slipping ahead of DA candidate and former mayor Nqaba Bhanga who secured 59 votes. The fight for the mayor's position mirrored the neck-and-neck race for control of the municipality at the

The new mayor was voted in with the help of a bloc of 10 seats cobbled together between GOOD, AIM, the UDM, DOP, Northern Alliance and the PAC. Mayor Johnson is only the second woman to hold the position since 1994. She is a seasoned businesswoman who has over 20 years of experience in governance.

She has served on the National Economic Development and Labour Council and has consulted widely on labour, community engagement, NGO governance, and local government policy. She also previously consulted for a Swedish-funded NGO, Ubutyebi Trust, on urban development and human settlements in the

on the council after the elections resulted in a hung council. The ANC secured 42% (96 seats), while the DA won 25.62% of the votes (58 seats).

Mayor Kaunda has been involved in politics since he was in his teenage years, growing up in Inanda, north of Durban.

Mxolisi Kaunda has been reelected as the mayor of eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, taking the position with 113 votes over DA opponent Nicole Graham. The ANC candidate secured the vote with the help of smaller parties

From the age of 15, he was involved in student politics and youth movements before becoming involved in the African National Congress Youth League structures.

He completed a Diploma in Governance and Leadership at the University of South Africa before pursuing an advanced diploma in Advanced Governance and Public Leadership at the University of the Witwatersrand.

municipality. She is no stranger to the running of the council, having served as councillor from 2005 to 2010. Mayor Johnson has vowed to create stability in the local government, as well as weed-out corruption. Her focus areas will include creating an environment conducive to economic development, supporting small businesses, and creating jobs.

This will include ensuring service delivery runs smoothly to the benefit of the local economy.

"Critical to economic development is rooting out corruption and all its manifestations. The biggest challenge we are facing is unemployment, we need to deal with it," the mayor said.

Mayor Johnson has also said she will address the water crisis in the municipality, starting with reducing water consumption significantly and fixing ageing water infrastructure.

Mayor Kaunda later moved up the ranks of the ANC, being appointed to the Provincial Executive Committee, before participating in local government. He served as Ward Councillor between 2000 and 2006, and later as a PR Councillor. In 2009, he served as a Member of the Provincial Legislature and was then appointed to the position of chair of the Transport Portfolio Committee.

In 2014, Mayor Kaunda was elected to the Provincial Legislature. Two years later, he was appointed as the MEC for Transport, Safety, and Community Liaison. In September 2019, Mayor Kaunda was redeployed to the local government level and was appointed as mayor. n

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 47

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

BY CHARNDRÉ EMMA KIPPIE

Supporting The Cape Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Sharna Fernandez, is committed to supporting vulnerable communities

W

ith previous experience in the banking sector, Sharna Gail Fernandez was sworn in as the Western Cape Provincial Minister of Social Development, in May 2019. Prior to this, Fernandez served as the Speaker of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament (between 2014 and 2019).

She is also a Member of the Democratic Alliance (DA).

A LIFE-LONG LEARNER Minister Sharna Fernandez grew up in the southern suburbs, Cape Town, and matriculated from South Peninsula High School. A self-proclaimed ‘life-long learner’, she completed her diplomas in Sales and Marketing, and Business Management, respectively.

No stranger to adversity and social challenges, Fernandez’s passion for service and social cohesion was ingrained in her from a very impressionable age.

Before venturing into politics, she served 30 years working in major South African banks, and has held the positions of Regional Manager, Sales and Service and acting General Manager of the ABSA mortgage division. Minister Fernandez is also a well-known business leader with Partners for Possibility.

48 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT REMAINS COMMITTED TO PROVIDING: •

A Social Welfare Service to the poor and vulnerable in partnership with stakeholders and civil society organisations

•

A Community Development Service that provides sustainable development programmes, which facilitate empowerment of communities.

VISION Build a self-reliant society.

MISSION To ensure the provision of a comprehensive network of social development services that enables and empowers the poor, the vulnerable and those with special needs.

AN ADVOCATE FOR SOCIAL SUPPORT During her time as the Western Cape Provincial Minister of Social Development, Fernandez has shown great interest and investment in addressing the issues plaguing communities in the province. From access to education and empowering the youth, to gender-based violence, Minister Fernandez has played a pivotal role in the management and oversight over social security, encompassing social assistance and social insurance policies.

On 24 September 2021, in commemoration of Heritage Day, Minister Fernandez launched the Department of Social Developments twelfth Youth Café, based in Riversdale, in partnership with the Hessequa Municipality.

These Youth Cafés are an initiative born out of the Provincial Youth Development Strategy, which calls for improving education outcomes (developing crucial skills for employment) and opportunities for youth.

"Youth Cafés offer young people the opportunity to acquire job readiness skills, gain entrepreneurial insights and training, and learn how to access funding opportunities, as well as practical training programmes across various sectors. They offer an accessible environment where young people may also find a sense of belonging among like-minded peers”, said Minister Fernandez.

“I am mindful of the importance of Youth Development. The importance of such services could not come at a better time, especially as we continue to mitigate the economic effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.”

FIGHTING FOR WOMEN’S RIGHTS As part of the #365DaysOfActivism campaign, Minister Fernandez made it her mission to address the criminal and social injustice that is genderbased violence. In November, the Courageous Conversations Series with government officials went off with a bang, and was geared towards strengthening

Minister Fernandez Discusses GBV in Courageous Conversations under the topic: Violence, Gender & Power

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 49

Minister Fernandez joins Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, to vaccinate Minstrels at Lentegeur Hospital, in Mitchells Plain.

collaboration, coordination, and effectiveness of the Western Cape Government’s (WCG) efforts to address GBV. Minister Fernandez then collaborated with the Western Cape’s Women’s Shelter Movement in a virtual meeting, at the beginning of December, to discuss the impact of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic on shelters providing support for victims of gender-based violence (GBV).

“I am acutely aware that collaborating with key stakeholders providing victims support services remains crucial to helping us create a society in which safety is prioritised and the rights and needs of victims of gender-based violence are acknowledged and

Premier Winde and Minister Fernandez engage with Wynberg social workers following World Mental Health Day

effectively addressed”, said Minister Fernandez.

“I wish to express my sincere gratitude for all the work being done by all shelter management teams and their staff. We are remarkably grateful to every VEP shelter in the province, for stepping up to the plate during these challenging times and providing much-needed services to the many women who find themselves destitute after being victims of GBV. “After all, gender-based violence sees no race, ethnicity, class or political affiliation. It is these types of collaborative efforts that will enable us to make a tangible difference - 365 days a year for the people of our Province.”

Aside from these initiatives,

50 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

as well as many of her other ongoing projects, Minister Sharna Fernandez has shown much empathy and compassion in her efforts to uplift the Western Province, especially as the world faces the impact of COVID-19.

“Whilst the uncertainty that we are dealing with during these unprecedented times makes extra caution reasonable, delivering social development services to our citizens, particularly the vulnerable, is at the heart of what we do.

“Government’s success in mitigating the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has been a consequence of how as a society, we have come together to unite against a common goal,” concluded Minister Fernandez. n

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 51

TRAILBLAZER

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Leading SA’s Covid-19 response Dr Joe Phaahla heads up the country’s health priorities

F

ighting the pandemic has required enormous resources and dedication from healthcare officials. Heading up the government’s response has been no small task, especially when taking on a role that has been marred with corruption allegations and tender scandal. Yet, Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla has taken up the reins with confidence, driving the country’s vaccination campaign, coordinating the government’s response to the third wave of infections, and preparing for future Covid-19 waves.

A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE In August, Dr Phaahla was appointed as Minister of Health during a Cabinet reshuffle by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

He had served as Deputy Minister of Health for more than two years before his promotion, having helped steer the Department of Health through the Coronavirus pandemic.

Dr Phaahla’s background in medicine has stood him in good stead. He completed a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery (MBCHB) from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (previously University of Natal) in 1983 and has practised at a number of hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo. But while upholding his medical oath, Dr Phaahla was also involved in the liberation struggle and held several leadership positions in movements such as the United Democratic Front before the unbanning of the ANC in 1990. After democracy, Dr Phaahla took up positions in government. He was appointed as a Member of the Provincial Executive Committee of ANC in Limpopo in 1991, holding the position for a decade.

52 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

He was appointed as the MEC for Health and Social Development in Limpopo in 1994, and in 1997 was appointed as MEC Education, Sports and Culture in the province.

At a national level, Dr Phaahla has served as director-general in the Department of Sport and Recreation and was instrumental in organising the 2010 FIFA World Cup before his redeployment to the post of Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Land in May 2009. He has also served as Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture, giving him broad experience in the management of various government departments.

Dr Phaahla has always taken a keen interest in the sporting community, and severed as chief executive officer of the SA Sports Commission, the SA Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC)’s predecessor, as well as the DirectorGeneral of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Government Coordinating Unit.

THE NEW FACE OF HEALTH Dr Phaahla took leadership of a department that was at the centre of a corruption scandal (that had influenced the resignation of his predecessor Dr Zweli Mkhize), and headed into the third wave of Covid-19 infections. Despite the pressures of mounting a health system defence against a new Covid-19 variant and managing what would prove to be South Africa’s most deadly period of infection to date, Dr Phaahla has been instrumental in driving South Africa’s vaccination programme.

“Dr Phaahla is a medical doctor who has worked in public health institutions in several provinces.

This experience, we believe, enables him to better understand the challenges the health sector, as well as healthcare workers, face,” said SAMA chairperson Dr Angelique Coetzee.

The South African Medical Association Trade Union (SAMATU) said the appointment would bring much-needed stability to the department.

ROLLING OUT VACCINATIONS The rollout of South Africa’s Covid-19 vaccinations has primarily taken place under Dr Phaahla, with the department embarking on the drive to vaccinate the largest demographics of adults under his watch. To date, around 25 million South Africans have received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine – more than 40% of the adult population.

“The National Department of health is at the centre of the health system and therefore cannot afford to be incapacitated. SAMATU aims to solidify its relations and pledges full support to the Minister’s office,” the organisation said as a statement.

Based on the current trajectory, four provinces have vaccinated around half of their populations, and the rest of the country should follow soon, Dr Phaahla says.

Despite extensive campaigning by the health department, officials have faced challenges of vaccine hesitancy and difficulty in reaching those living in far-out rural areas.

However, Coetzee pointed out that Dr Phaahla faces an enormous challenge in his new role, with a struggling healthcare sector made up of physically and emotionally drained healthcare workers, on account of the ongoing pandemic.

The government’s communication about vaccines was dealt a blow by the Digital Vibes scandal, in which a R150 million tender was unlawfully awarded. This eroded faith in the department and hampered communication around

His appointment as Health Minister was widely welcomed, with the South African Medical Association (SAMA) noting his extensive experience in the public health system.

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 53

the pandemic - challenges Dr Phaahla has been forced to tackle immediately after taking up his role as health minister.

One of the steps in tackling the issue of communication around vaccination has been a public apology by Dr Phaahla for what he termed a “very unfortunate and devastating saga”. The other has been to harness available resources to communicate the importance of the Covid-19 jabs. During past epidemics, such as HIV, health officials often communicated to those living in remote areas through large community meetings.

However, this has not been possible due to the nature of Covid-19 transmissions. Instead, the government has had to rely on social and broadcast media and healthcare worker outreach through community clinics to reach the majority of South Africans. Dr Phaahla says the low vaccination uptake and hesitancy among the younger population is problematic and has been driven by misinformation.

“It is clear in this population, fake news on social media is making a huge impact and keeping away many young adults from vaccination. We hope as we approach the festive season because they will be more at risk through social and entertainment activities, many more will come forward.”

TARGETED INTERVENTIONS TO BOLSTER VACCINE NUMBERS The Health department has also introduced a number of incentives to encourage citizens to vaccinate. These include

encouraging event organisers to institute mandatory vaccines policies for attendees, which was successfully implemented recently at an international soccer game.

To encourage vaccination, the government is also offering grocery vouchers to those older than 60 – the age group most at risk of severe illness and death.Targeted interventions have also helped drive vaccine numbers.

The department has run two “Vooma” vaccination weekends, in which various government ministers have visited vaccination sites to encourage the public to receive their doses. The three-day drives, which ran in October and again in November, resulted in more than 700 000 vaccine doses being administered. Added to these, the government also ran vaccination drives at targeted voting stations on Election Day. These efforts are starting to take effect. In the Vaccine Social Listening Report by the Department of Health, there has been a slight increase in vaccine acceptance.

“There is multiple anecdotal evidence that there is a small shift in public sentiments from vaccine hesitancy towards more keenness for vaccination in many parts of the country,” the report said. Increasing the number of vaccinated citizens is one of Dr Phaahla’s top priorities, especially as the fourth wave of the pandemic looms.

Experts estimate that the fourth wave starts between the middle of December and early January, driven primarily by people’s movements over the festive season. The most significant single influence on the severity of the fourth wave will be

54 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

how many people have received their Covid-19 vaccination, says Dr Phaahla.

PRIORITISING MENTAL HEALTH However, Dr Phaahla’s focus has not only rested on the Covid-19 pandemic. The Health Minister has been vocal about improving mental health services within the public sector.Research has shown that less than one in 10 people living with mental health conditions receive the care they need. This is as a result of access, policy and limited resources, the research has suggested.

However, says Dr Phaahla, community-based care can be vital in improving mental health services.

He adds that stabilising Covid-19 numbers through vaccination will allow the department to focus on the recovery and rebuilding of health facilities and establishing more robust mental health services.

The Health Minister adds that healthcare service often focuses on physical illnesses at the expense of mental health. However, with the pandemic exacerbating the mental health burden, shifting focus has become more important than ever.

Research has shown that as much as a third of South Africans reported depression during the first lockdown period.

Health officials have also noticed an increase in mood and anxiety disorders, as well as substance abuse. South Africa’s health department has led the fight against Covid-19 and placed the work of Dr Phaahla and his department under the spotlight.

With the high stakes involved, the Hon. Health Minister has led from the front. n

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ADVERTORIAL SANBS

The SANBS Launches a campaign that highlights the lifesaving impact of blood donation

W

ith just weeks to go until the start of the festive season, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has launched an awareness campaign that seeks to drive blood donation in anticipation of the busy holiday season.

SANBS’ CEO, Ravi Reddy, admitted that this year has seen concerning fluctuations in blood stocks throughout the year and hopes that donors will help them reach five (5) days’ stock which is needed to ensure a sustainable supply for the country.

media platforms. Donating blood literally means saving lives and Reddy says the SANBS is grateful to its blood donors, partners and service providers for their continued support through these trying times.

“We hope this campaign will inspire and encourage the public to include blood donation in their daily lives and to join in this lifesaving mission by becoming committed donors. At a time when we are unable to gather for much else, we can at least join forces for this common cause – giving the gift of life,” Reddy concluded. n

“Blood donations in South African have always been low, considering that less than 1% of the population actively give blood. Now, due to COVID-19 and lockdown, the number has declined further in the past 18 months. We hope that this campaign, which presents a new perspective on the need for blood, will drive an increase in donations,” Reddy says.

The awareness campaign will commence on Monday, 15 November 2021 using a 360 approach to reach maximum audiences across the country through the use of radio, billboards and the various SANBS social

TO BECOME A BLOOD DONOR, YOU MUST: Be between the ages of 16 and 75 years.

Weigh 50kg or more.

Be in good health.

Lead a healthy lifestyle.

To find out more about where you can donate blood, visit.sanbs.org.za or call 0800 11 90 31. Connect with us on Twitter (@theSANBS), Facebook (@SANBS) and Instagram (@thesanbs)

56 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient.

sanbs.org.za

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 57

IN OTHER NEWS

BY CHARNDRÉ EMMA KIPPIE

The State of AIDS in South Africa Looking beyond all the controversies towards more supportive measures across the nation A DECLINE IN INFECTIONS In 2020, almost 1 million people across the globe died from HIVrelated causes, and around 1.5 million people acquired HIV. Zooming in a bit closer to home, it has been recorded that South Africa has the largest HIV epidemic in the world - with 7.7 million people currently living with HIV. However, in recent months, HIV incidence has slowly been declining across sub-Saharan Africa. This comes as a result of a much-needed step up in preventative and transmissionblocking treatments.

GLOBAL STATISTICS •

37.7 million [30.2 million–45.1 million] people, globally, were living with HIV in 2020.

•

One in five of the world’s 37.7 million HIV-infected people lives in South Africa.

•

28.2 million people were accessing antiretroviral therapy as of 30 June 2021.

•

AIDS-related mortality has declined by 53% among women and girls and by 41% among men and boys since 2010.

•

In sub-Saharan Africa, women and girls accounted for 63% of all new HIV infections in 2020.

•

39% of new HIV infections were documented in sub-Saharan Africa.

•

Each week in South Africa, 2,000 girls and women aged 15 to 34 are infected with HIV.

58 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

MAKING PROGRESS THROUGH ARVS The reduction in HIV transmission rates can largely be attributed to the efficacious national antiretroviral treatment (ART) programme and successful preventative tools. Researchers note that they are witnessing dynamic changes in the age distribution of HIV incidence in South Africa. Results in HIV studies are indicating that new infections are concentrating in those 25 years of age and older.

Over the past four decades, we have witnessed amazing scientific and medical progress.

Unfortunately, however, the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS still exists. Many infected individuals choose to avoid testing, and some even die in shame. One thing is clear: adequate knowledge and treatment is not reaching the

most vulnerable, and inequality hinders efforts to change the trajectory of the epidemic. Just a few weeks ago Judi Nwokedi who is the Founder of LoveLife, and Knut Siefert - Board member of the AIDS Consortium, weighed in on the state of AIDS in South Africa and the world.

“Is it possible to avert the looming threat of death for 140,000 people in 2022 from TB, cryptococcal meningitis and other causes of HIV-related deaths? Absolutely. We need to break down this war into bite-size battles”, they exclaimed.

“Let 2022 be the year of course correction. A surge of determination and energy is demanded to reach the finish line. Our new approach requires speed, ambition and urgency to set attainable and time-bound targets.”

They concluded that: “Every person saved from an AIDS-related death is one more productive member of society able to contribute to the community.

Every person living with undetectable HIV levels has the opportunity to live long enough to witness an AIDS-free generation.” *For more information and news on HIV/AIDS, please visit: sanac.org.za THE NATIONAL STRATEGIC PLAN The National Strategic Plan (NSP) 2017 – 2022 serves as a roadmap for the next stage of our journey towards a future where HIV, TB and STIs are no longer public health problems.

This plan sets out the destinations – or goals- of our shared journey and establishes landmarks in the form of specific measurable objectives.

THE NSP AIMS TO ACHIEVE ITS AMBITIOUS TARGETS BY: •

•

•

Intensifying the focus on geographic areas and populations most severely affected by the epidemics.

Using a combination of interventions that have proved to deliver high impact Strengthening systems and initiating processes to provide the foundation necessary for higher performance.

A strong focus of this NSP is improving the prevention of HIV infection among adolescent girls and young women because of the extremely high rate of infection in this section of the population. Not only does early infection irreversibly shape the lives of hundreds of thousands of women from their teens and early twenties onward, but reaching our national targets for reducing HIV is unthinkable without putting young women first.

Five-year NSPs for HIV, TB and STIs are an established tool for directing and coordinating our national effort and ensuring our interventions are relevant, based on evidence and guided by methods that have been shown to be effective. However, this particular NSP comes at a critical stage in our protracted effort to overcome HIV, TB and STIs.

HOW TO PREVENT FURTHER SPREAD OF AIDS Society can lower the risk of HIV infection by limiting exposure to risk factors. Key approaches for HIV prevention, which are often used in combination, include:

Testing and counselling for HIV and STIs

Testing and counselling for linkages to tuberculosis (TB) care

Male and female condom use

Voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC)

Use of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) for prevention

Harm reduction for people who inject and use drugs

The elimination of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV n

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 59

COVID UPDATE

BY KOKETSO MAMABOLO

Alcohol vs COVID-19:

The protective measures being put in place “We call upon all travellers, especially those who are unvaccinated or partly vaccinated coming from areas declared hotspots, to get vaccinated before hitting the roads to protect their families and friends they will be visiting during this period associated with large social gatherings like parties and weddings, which can be ‘super spreader’ events that carry a huge risk of transmission of the virus”, said the Honourable Minister Phaahla in a December statement.

Amidst a push to get more of the adult population vaccinated, South African scientists identified a new variant that has seen cases rise and borders close.

Questions have been raised about restrictions within the country, with many wondering if it may be time for the National Corona Command Council (NCCC) to recommend moving the nation to a higher

60 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

lockdown level. The recommendations on alcohol have previously been based on how the health system is coping with non-COVID patients. In 2020, at the height of liquor restrictions, hospitals were seeing a sixty to seventy percent drop in admissions and visits in their trauma units.

“In general, alcohol use is expected to reduce adherence to non-pharmacological methods of reducing the transmission of SARS CoV 2 such as physical distancing, hand sanitation and use of masks within the social setting. In addition, hospitals are considered high risk areas for exposure to COVID. By limiting alcohol-related hospital visits/admissions we are limiting exposure to and transmission of SARS CoV 2,” reads a report from 2020 by the Health Department.

CURRENT REGULATIONS The current regulations, as they apply to alcohol consumption and social gatherings:

•

•

Restaurants, bars, shebeens and taverns must close by 11PM.

•

Owners are liable to a fine or imprisonment for not adhering to regulations.

•

Venues cannot have more than 750 people indoors

•

Outdoor venues can have up to 2000 people with social distancing of one and a half metres

People who go to venues knowing restrictions are not being followed are also liable.

•

Night clubs are closed to the public. Owners and managers are liable for violations.

•

If the venue is too small to hold 750 indoors, or 2000 outdoors, then no more than fifty percent of the capacity may be used.

STRATEGY

Limit Availability

Drink driving counter measures & policing of public & illegal drinking

Advertising and packaging

•

The sale and transportation of liquor is permitted within curfew restrictions.

PROHIBITION AND ALTERNATIVE MEASURES While the Omnicron variant is spreading rapidly, the mortality rate has not been as high as expected, so a hard ban is unlikely.

Recommendations, using evidence-based strategies from the World Health Organisation, have already been set out. Some are short-term approaches, others are long-term. n

RATIONALE AND APPROACH

CHALLENGES

Limit off-consumption times for outlets with off-consumption licenses (Tue-Thu: 09:00-17:00) #

4 days to 3 will further reduce relatively painlessly for consumers.

Same as current. Mitigate by monitoring, enforcement, suspension of licenses, etc.

Limit purchase amounts to reduce consumption and stop sales to unlicensed outlets (e.g. equivalent of 48 or 72 standard drinks) * # ~

Industry creates ID-based system linked to national database. Limit how much can be transported by individuals without licenses.

All traders to use the system to prevent people buying small amounts from multiple outlets.

Industry to reduce manufacturing to 70% of capacity -- perhaps close some breweries

Reduces alcohol availability and incentive to sell more. Avoids stopping production altogether.

Persuading industry.

Monitoring compliance

No off-sales by on-consumption outlets (or any unlicensed outlet) – reduce availability significantly.

Of 90 000 licensed liquor outlets, 25 000 are off-consumption and 65 000 on consumption.

Economic hardship. Mitigate by supporting esp. licensed small subsistence outlets

Reduce BAC level for drivers to 0.02g AA/100ml blood or less

Fast-track Road Traffic Amendment Bill 1 currently on Parliamentary 2020 agenda.

Same as current, though easier to enforce

Test blood alcohol after serious motor vehicle collisions

Improve systems and turn-around times.

Requires policing & judicial response

Action against public drinking illegal drinking at on-consumption outlets, licensed and unlicensed

Accompanied by visible awareness-raising campaign

Requires policing & judicial response

Only permit advertising factual information about product (not lifestyle) & only at point of sale. No specials on bulk purchases.

Include ban on ‘responsible drinking’ ads because generally done by reinforcing the ‘lifestyle’ aspects of alcohol consumption. 2

Resistance from alcohol industry and advertising industry

Ban sale of large containers which encourage excessive drinking e.g. limit to 500ml beer and cider, 750ml wine and 750ml spirits

SAMRC research shows larger containers linked to higher consumption; stops sharing from same container; increases price so reduces consumption

Resistance from industry and consumers

Point-of-production to point-of-sale system by industry to track products back to source of supply and stop sales to unlicensed outlets ^

This worked in Russia3 - action is possible against unlicensed seller and licensed supplier who sold the alcohol to them.

Resistance from industry

* Equivalent of 24 standard drinks (24 x 330ml beers or 4 bottles 750 ml wine or 1 bottle 750ml spirits), all sales registered on a centralised database (eg the way Dischem works). | ** Everybody to present ID at point of sale/delivery. | *** Delivery no sooner than 2 hours after order made & do age verification before handing over. | # Revisit after Covid-19 sorted, but don’t return to pre-COVID-19 operating hours, i.e. establish a ‘new, safer norm’. | ~ Purchases above a certain limit must require production of a liquor license. | ^ Important for preventing the sale of alcohol products to unlicensed outlets.

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 61

REGIONAL FOCUS: WESTERN CAPE

BY CHARNDRÉ EMMA KIPPIE

Municipal Energy Resilience Project Empowering Municipalities BECOMING INDEPENDENT “The fact is that load shedding continues to severely impact businesses and the economy in the Western Cape. And so, we have worked hard to deliver a number of projects, including the recently launched MER [Municipal Energy Resilience] Project, to mitigate the impact of load shedding on the provincial economy,” said Western Cape Finance and Economic Opportunities MEC, David Maynier in a statement regarding Stellenbosch’s plans to generate 100% of their own electricity.

Cape’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism, and backed by the Department of Local Government and Provincial Treasury.

The Municipal Energy Resilience project (MER) was developed following an amendment to Schedule 2 of the Electricity Regulation Act in 2020 which allowed for municipalities to generate their own electricity.

The project is led by the Energy Directorate, within the Western

Stellenbosch Executive Mayor Gesie van Deventer added, in a statement, “With blackouts and load shedding frequently sweeping across the nation due to the energy crisis in South Africa, it has become imperative for municipalities to start investigating alternate energy

“I am pleased to hear that we are able to support Stellenbosch Municipality through the MER project, and I look forward to our continued efforts to do everything we can to support other municipalities to participate in the growing green energy sector so that together we can create a more energy resilient future in the Western Cape,” continued the MEC.

62 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

sources,” said Stellenbosch Executive Mayor Gesie van Deventer in a statement.

The MER was launched as part of the effort to diversify the energy mix, reducing reliance on Eskom. The Western Cape government wants municipalities to have reliable energy which is affordable, and can grow the economy without negatively impacting the environment.

OBJECTIVES The Western Cape government’s websites states: “The key objectives of the MER project are the development, support and capacity building to implement renewable energy projects in municipalities across the province for municipalities, businesses and households to generate, procure and sell [their] own power including, but not limited to, municipalities

transacting directly with IPPs, all aimed at increasing energy and economic resilience.”

The project is using four approaches. The first is by creating space for small-scale embedded generation. Providing assistance in procurement processes for municipalities to source energy from Independent Power Producers (IPP) is the second approach.

The third is by building a business case for utility-scale gas to power generation. The Energy Directorate's final approach is reforming the sector.

The provincial government is quick to point out, however, that complete removal from the national grid, outside of wellresourced municipalities like Stellenbosch, will not be possible due to insufficient capacity. The project is merely to lighten the load and offset the effects of intermittent power cuts.

PHASES MER has three phases. Phase 1 assesses municipalities to find suitable candidates. The second phase prepares the pioneering candidates and will be followed by the third phase, which will bring the project to municipalities across the province.

•

Phase 1: November 2020 - September 2021

•

Phase 2: October 2021 - June 2022

•

Phase 3: July 2022/23

MUNICIPAL READINESS EVALUATION TOOL (MRET) The MRET, which evaluates candidate municipalities for the MER project, uses the requirements set out in the Department of Mineral Resources & Energy’s New Generation Amendment Regulations: •

Financial standing

•

Operational capacity

•

Energy policies

•

Ongoing energy-related projects

Outside of the City of Cape Town, six candidate municipalities passed the evaluation and were identified for the project: • • • • • •

Drakenstein Mossel Bay Overstrand Saldanha Bay Stellenbosch Swartland

with the goals of the MER. As part of the Request for Information (RFI), over 100 projects were presented to the provincial government from 82 submissions.

62 of the submissions have a total nominal generation capacity of 4800 MW.

The province is ideal for investment, with the right combination of resources and skilled labour THE PERFECT PLACE TO START Of all the provinces in South Africa, the Western Cape’s position as a hub for green energy services makes it the perfect testing ground for a decentralised energy supply mix. The province is ideal for investment, with the right combination of resources and skilled labour, as well as a provincial and local government commitment to renewable energy. n

FUNDING In his 2021 Budget address, MEC David Maynier announced that R48.8-million would be allocated to overcoming loadshedding. An additional R20-million in provincial reserves will also be available.

The first round of funding in the Municipal Energy Resilience Fund (MERF) boasts R13-million, which is for research in energy-related projects.

With the money, municipalities can bring their Electricity Master Plans up to date, review or create Cost Supply Studies and craft Integrated Resource Plans (IRPs).

Funding is also available for any other preparation activities in line

David Maynier | Western Cape Finance and Economic Opportunities MEC

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 63

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Shaping South Africa's future through diplomatic relations ZOOMING IN ON DIRCO The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) promotes South Africa's national interests and values within the international community.

advises the government on policy and other domestic matters while providing a link to home for South Africans travelling, working or living in other countries through its almost 300 representatives abroad.

DIRCO, under the leadership of the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor, is mandated to carry out bilateral and multilateral interactions to promote the country's foreign policy objectives. Minister Pandor's role is to champion the government's vision for South Africa's international relations and Africa's role on the global stage.

A VOICE FOR THE DEVELOPING WORLD As South Africa's diplomatic representative, much of Minister Pandor's role lies in speaking for the county during international conventions and negotiations.

She recently led the South Africa delegation at the G20 summit in Rome, Italy, when President Cyril Ramaphosa was unable to attend due to commitments on home soil in the run-up to the local government elections.

As South Africa's top diplomat, Minister Pandor often represents the country at key meetings to negotiate South Africa's position and promote the nation's interests and values. But DIRCO's role goes beyond just diplomacy – the department also monitors international developments and

While at the summit, Minister Pandor engaged with other leaders on the topics of access to vaccines, free security debt, and support for women's empowerment. The G20 grouping is an important political

64 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

structure, formed in 1999 between nations that make up 85% of the world's GDP, 80% of world trade and two-thirds of the world's population. The G20 has worked towards improving economic and financial transparency, as well as strengthening financial systems.

South Africa is the only African member of the G20 and has become a significant voice for the continent during negotiations.

Acting as a voice for the continent has become critical during the pandemic. According to UNICEF, G20 countries have received 15 times more Covid-19 vaccine doses per capita than countries in sub-Saharan Africa. This figure

highlights the stark inequality of vaccine distribution between developed and developing nations, with the world's health officials calling on wealthier nations to assist global vaccinations.

"Vaccine inequity is not just holding the poorest countries back – it is holding the world back," said UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore.

"Wealthy countries with more supplies than they need have generously pledged to donate these doses to low- and middleincome countries via COVAX, but these promised doses are moving too slowly. Of the 1.3 billion additional doses countries have pledged to donate, only 356 million doses have been provided to COVAX." BUILDING TRADE PARTNERSHIPS Last month, Minister Pandor attended another key international summit: The 21st Indian Ocean Rim Association's (IORA) Council of Ministers (COM) meeting.

The meeting was the last meeting that South Africa attended as a member of the IORA Troika, as the Association's past Chair (20172019), and where Bangladesh will take over the chairship from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with Sri Lanka becoming the Vice-Chair.

However, South Africa will continue to lead the IORA Working Group of the Blue Economy. It will also become the Chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Academic Group (IORAG) as well as remain very active as a Cluster Group Member of the majority of Working and Core Groups of IORA.

The grouping is an important one for the country, as the government works to harness the economic potential of its oceans through programmes such as Operation Phakisa - a programme designed to help the country take advantage of the untapped potential of South Africa's coastline.

The IORA meeting focused on harnessing the opportunities of the Indian Ocean sustainably for inclusive development, as well as the effects of the global pandemic.

Minister Pandor used the meeting as an opportunity to address the Member States and Dialogue Partners at a Strategic Dialogue session on: "The Impact of COVID-19 and perspectives of economic recovery in the Indian Ocean Region".

She said South Africa had developed expertise in national park management and global recognition of halal food production. She also said South African would look to expand its consular facilities in the country.

While in Bangladesh, Minister Pandor visited the Joyeeta Foundation to learn about women's economic empowerment.

She visited the stalls of entrepreneurs creating garments, handcrafts and home décor. The Joyeeta Foundation provides infrastructural, physical and technical support to the women entrepreneurs in the country with a view to increasing their earnings, living standards and ensuring women economic empowerment.

Minister Pandor said IORA is an important body upholding its principles, with its members working independently of any powerful nations and their instructions. The visit to Bangladesh aimed to give the South African delegation an insight into the investment potential of Bangladesh special economic zones and hitech parks. Minister Pandor said the delegation was exploring the potential of increasing engagement in trade and commerce.

"Potential of Africa has not yet been recognised by Bangladesh while the potential of Bangladesh is not recognised by the African market," Minister Pandor said.

Also under discussion was the development of a national park, halal trade and cricket.

Hon. Naledi Pandor | Minister of International Relations and Cooperation

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 65

SECURING DIPLOMATIC TIES But Minister Pandor's work does not only lie in securing key trade partnerships with other developing nations. She has recently undertaken a number of visits to European countries to foster stronger trade relations and diplomatic ties.

In November, Minister Pandor visited Belgium to strengthen cooperation between South Africa, Belgium, and the rest of the European Union (EU). She met with representatives of the EU and Belgium to discuss the possibility of collaboration in trade and pharmaceutical research, especially in light of the global pandemic.

Belgium is one of South Africa's most important economic partners, with many of South Africa's exports entering Europe through the Belgian Port of Antwerp. In 2020, Belgium was South Africa's 11th largest export market and sixth largest source of foreign direct investment. The country is also an ideal partner for South Africa's ambitions to increase vaccine production – it has a reputation as a work leader in research and

pharmaceuticals. During her visit, Minister Pandor discussed the possibilities for further collaboration between South Africa and Belgium in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following her visit to Belgium, Minister Pandor visited its neighbour, the Netherlands. Here she took part in the Second Meeting of the South Africa-Netherlands Joint Commission for Cooperation.

The Commission will focus on expanding cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the areas of trade and investment, agriculture and water, arts and culture, as well as science and innovation.

Trade between South Africa and the Netherlands increased by 28%, from R70-billion in 2020 to R89-billion during the twelve months to the end of June 2021.

The increased trade has been attributed to a surge in commodity exports. Minister Pandor also toured the Port of Rotterdam. The Port has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Northern Cape Economic Development Agency for the development of the Port of Boegoebaai.

Hon. Naledi Pandor, meeting the Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, for bilateral talks on the margins of the G20 Ministers’ Meeting

66 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

Leading trade and diplomatic delegations require a vast range of experience and knowledge, which Minister Pandor acquired during her service to South Africa. She has held the position of Minister of Higher Education and Training and the Minister of Science and Technology.

Minister Pandor has been a Member of Parliament since 1994, during which time she served as ANC Caucus Whip and Chairperson of the NCOP as well as Member of the Portfolio Committee on Education. Her education lies in the fields of Education and Linguistics, and she obtained a Doctorate in Education from the University of Pretoria in 2019.

It's no small task leading the country's diplomatic efforts, especially at a time when the world will need to work together to overcome the pandemic and its effects. Minister Pandor not only speaks for South Africa, strengthening the country's trade and international relations, but she is also a key voice in expressing Africa's needs and potential to the rest of the world. n

CHANNEL AFRICA THE AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE

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Channel Africa is South Africa’s international public broadcast radio station whose primary audience is the entire African continent.

lan yra .tn

Our secondary audience is the rest of the world, where we harvest our news and information. As an International Public Broadcaster, our core values subscribe to the highest journalistic ethics which find expression in fairness, accuracy, and impartiality.

Channel Africa is a platform through which Africa is engaged in debate with itself, and recognises South Africa as a role player in continental and international affairs.

,dlr sA . seu dn .ytil acir ses dn .sri

Vision: “The African Perspective”

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Mission: “to promote the regeneration, revival, and rejuvenation of Africa, through the production and broadcast of dynamic, stimulating, and interesting programmes”.

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Contact Information: Tel: 011 714 2997 Fax: 011 714 2072 Email: info@channelafrica.co.za

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Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 67

TOURISM IN FOCUS

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Travel bans and the economy The road to recovery amid pandemic pressures

A

lmost two years after Covid-19 was first declared a global health emergency and pandemic, the travel and tourism industry is still trying to find its feet. The global tourism economy has lost an estimated $4.5-trillion due to travel restrictions, and it has resulted in millions of jobs being shed.

Africa has not been immune to the downswing in travel – almost half of those working in tourism on the continent have lost their employment. And the continent is expected to have lost around $170-billion to $253-billion from reduced travel in 2021.

DRIVING JOB CREATION Tourism is an important sector for the continent, as it provides income for the protection of natural areas, such as nature reserves and national parks, and creates job opportunities.

African states saw an almost 50% decline in travel and tourism GDP – a figure in line with the rest of the world – but the continent was disproportionately affected by job losses. There were around 29.3% of jobs lost (representing 7.2 million jobs) compared to the global average of 21.5%. In the wake of the pandemic, the tourism sector in Africa shed around a third of its jobs and posted a loss of R1.2-trillion. Some countries were more severely impacted than others. In Botswana, the 2020 lockdowns led to about 99% of the country's tourism workforce being temporarily or permanently laid off.

68 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

At home, the volume of tourists decreased by 72,6%, from 10,2 million in 2019 to 2,8 million in 2020.

Prior to the pandemic, the tourism sector contributed about 4,5% of total employment in South Africa.

According to the Tourism Business Council of South Africa, the industry has lost 470,000 jobs out of 1.5 million. And with the drop in visitor numbers, funds for protected areas have dwindled. In South Africa, there was a 96% drop in visits to national parks under SANParks management, the equivalent of 90% of tourism revenue.

But this brings additional risk – jobs and conservation management are placed on the line when funds decrease. Reducing travel bans is essential to the recovery of the economy and the tourism sector. Business For South Africa's steering committee chairperson, Martin Kingston, said international travel bans have the potential to decimate what is left of the local tourism industry, especially as government relief packages begin to run dry.

The resilience of domestic tourism is key to SA's recovery This has again been cast into the limelight following the discovery of the Omicron variant and the resulting travel restrictions.

It is estimated that the Cape Town tourism sector alone lost around R255 million a day due to cancellations and travel bans.

Across the country, an estimated R1 billion in bookings was lost due to

the reimposed travel restrictions – and this excludes the loss to airlines and of visitor spending.

These losses could result in further job cuts in an already struggling sector.

EARLY SIGNS OF RECOVERY South Africa has already begun to see tourists return to the country, and locals – who have also faced restrictions in travelling abroad – have been supporting the sector. This is likely to continue as long as interprovincial travel can be sustained. Key industry role players had noticed an increase in bookings prior to the announcement of the Omicron variant.

"SA Tourism's short-term strategic initiatives and trade engagements in key source markers were starting to pay off as we saw an increase in bookings with more and more travellers wanting to visit South Africa again. Over the last few months, we also witnessed increased optimism and confidence towards our country, with more airlines reinstating direct flights to South Africa and more strategic partners engaging with us in the promotion of the South African tourism sector," says South African Tourism's Acting Chief Executive Officer, Sthembiso Dlamini.

"We were truly on the right trajectory to save jobs in our industry. This latest development is certainly going to have a devastating effect on our tourism industry, airlines and business partners." Over the past few months, the recovery of the sector

has picked up the pace, even though numbers remain below pre-pandemic levels. Stats SA estimates that in August, the total income of the sector was 88% the previous year, but it remained twothirds below August 2019. However, following a slew of cancellations, the industry could again see itself reliant on the domestic market for the festive season, especially if increased vaccination numbers reduce infection rates and allow restrictions to remain relaxed.

As such, local holiday destinations are still expecting a great endof-year tourist season, despite international cancellations. While the season may not be as strong as initially expected, it is still likely to top the 2020 season, experts say. However, encouraging international visitors to travel to South Africa remains a priority, especially in terms of job creation.

For every tourist that travels from overseas, around ten jobs are supported, economists have estimated.

Dlamini adds: "We would like to emphasise that our country remains open for all those travellers who wish to visit. We also encourage all South Africans to continue with their plans to go out there to explore and enjoy travelling within South Africa while observing guidelines laid out by the national command centre from time to time.

The resilience of domestic tourism is key to the recovery of South Africa's tourism sector and to the economy, as this helps avoid any further job losses.” n

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 69

FINANCIAL FITNESS

BY CHARNDRÉ EMMA KIPPIE

How to find financial success in 2022 Use this nifty checklist to get your finances in order

I

t has been a turbulent past two years - this is undeniable! With the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2019, we have all faced a rather unusual, taxing time. For many individuals, these circumstances have thrown a significant load of stress on mental and physical health, and financial well-being. As we transition into a brand new year all together, now is the time to grab a moment to reflect on the lessons learned — now is the time to claim your financial success.

FINANCIAL EXERCISE As you reflect on the last two years remember to zoom in on the actions and behaviours, affecting your financial affairs, that you can actually change and control. Focusing on what is out of your control will only cause you more stress and distraction.

70 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

Ask yourself if you have a good financial plan. Are you on track for long-term financial stability?

Then, pinpoint the things you can actively work towards changing and implementing in the new year. Think of this exercise as setting your financial goals for 2022.

GETTING FINANCIALLY FIT FOR 2022 As you go through this process of setting your financial goals for the year ahead, here are a few tips that may assist you in making the correct decisions: REVIEW THOSE SPENDING HABITS What did you spend money on in 2021? Are you spending more than you’re investing? Do you have a safety net or flexible spending account? These are the types of financial behaviours that set those who are financially secure apart from people who remain in debt.

Now more than ever, you need to be considering saving for a rainy day, as no one knows when COVID-19 will become a thing of the past (if ever).

Spend your money on NEEDS and not things you want to need — only the essentials should factor into your monthly budget. So, when it comes down to choosing an expensive dinner with friends over paying your water bill, what will you choose?

REMEMBER: BILLS BEFORE FRILLS, ALWAYS.

IT’S TIME FOR A FULL LIFE AUDIT You may see this as a timeconsuming task. However, taking a complete life audit may be just what you need to achieve your financial goals this upcoming year.

A life audit includes: listing all your goals, both long-term and shortterm. Then, take a visual look at your habits/lifestyle and get down to re-prioritising, paying special attention to those things that are most important to you.

Use a journal to brainstorm or even create a vision board. Then, align these elements with your cash flow and financial planning.

This process is meant to assist you with re-evaluating your life goals and changing your mindset when it comes to money management.

GET READY FOR YOUR WORST-CASE SCENARIO As the saying goes: ‘It'll get worse before it gets better’. When push comes to shove, will you have all your ‘financial ducks’ in a row?

We all need a backup plan.

Nobody wants to get caught in a predicament where there are no finances to cushion the blow of an unexpected situation. This is why it is vital that you spend some time updating all listed beneficiaries on your financial accounts.

If you’ve never approached this type of long-term financial planning before, it may be a good idea to get a lawyer or financial advisor on board to assist you.

SAVE FOR YOUR RETIREMENT Retirement planning starts with thinking about your retirement goals and how long you have to meet them. When setting this goal, it is important to consider the type of lifestyle you hope to lead after retirement, and how much funds you will need to sustain said lifestyle. Increasing your retirement contributions are a great way to ensure that you meet the requirements of the lifestyle you want.

A great tip for making sure you stick to this particular financial goal, is to automate your savings.

This means going to your financial provider and making your retirement contributions automatic each month. This creates an opportunity to grow your retirement investment without having to think about it too much. n

This includes your retirement, benefits and investment accounts. It is also important to review your estate planning and asset protection.

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 71

LEGAL MATTERS

BY SILKE RATHBONE

The Great Resignation Should you be worried?

Much like the Great Depression, the Great Resignation has been a hard pill to swallow, mostly for employers.

WHAT IS THIS GREAT RESIGNATION ALL ABOUT? In essence, given the last 18-20 months everyone has had to endure, you would think that the last thing on an employed person's mind would be to resign. However, with companies struggling to make ends meet and hold on to their staff, employees feel somewhat nervous about their job security. So, why would they resign then?

With their job security under risk came, for many, longer working hours with no boundaries (even lower incomes paid), feeling overworked and often spiralling into a world of despair and depression. And, with that came many employees downing tools or jumping ship in search of better working environments.

Employees have started to question their job conditions and decided that there is more to life than money or job security. Many of them that fit into the Great Resignation have had other skills to fall back on, some going to pursue life-long dreams, changing careers altogether, and some looking to spend more time with family.

72 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

Words such as “toxic”, “reaching breaking point”, and “burnout” have been rife over the last few months, but never more so in the previous quarter, and this is not just a global trend. South Africa is also starting to see the turn of tides on this front.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR EMPLOYERS? It means, now more than ever, employers need to start a campaign of retention, and not only because it costs more to replace employees than to retain them but because the mind shift that has started could have further-reaching implications.

Ask yourself what employees have been doing and thinking about whilst they were in lock down. They were thinking, the majority at least, that they can actually work from home and still get paid, that

they can do their job just as well and not have to travel in traffic, spend money outside of their home and in the end, save money.

They think they can be in charge of their destiny and environment.

Many have even considered starting up their businesses, often competing with their current employers. Employers need to consider introducing the hybrid model of employment and working.

“The hybrid model offers benefits for employees, employers and the environment alike. Workers are free to base themselves at home or a flex-space closer to home so that they can lock in the worklife balance benefits they found during periods of lock down.

The reduction in commuting cuts companies’ carbon footprints and supports environmental goals while empowering people

to choose where they work maintains – and can even improve – productivity”, says Joanne Bushell, MD of IWG, South Africa Considering a permanent ‘hybrid’ way of working will mean making some significant changes, but in the end, these big changes can have more positive results longterm. If you have not addressed or even considered that employees' mindsets are changing with how they view work, you will surely be on the back step going forward.

Sure, this COVID-19 pandemic will pass – in a few months – or a few years maybe – but it will pass.

So, for now, future-proof your business by putting plans in place to retain your staff and consider the hybrid way. n

CONTACT SILKE Address: Frazzitta Business Park 0A Langeberg Rd, Durbanville, Cape Town, 7550 Tel: +27 72 018 5827 Web: labourexcel.co.za Email: atlantic@labourexcel.co.za Social Media: @LabourExcel

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 73

UPCOMING EVENTS

BY CHARNDRÉ EMMA KIPPIE

its all about

Festive Cheer 16 DEC

01 DEC World AIDS Day

Day of Reconciliation

We commemorate this day on the 1st of December, annually.

World AIDS Day is an important opportunity for every community to come together in the fight against HIV, show support for people living with HIV, and pay tribute to those members of society who have died as a result of HIV/AIDS.

The Day of Reconciliation is also popularly known as the “Day of the Vow” or “Dingane’s Day”.

The theme of World AIDS Day 2021 will be: “End inequalities. End AIDS”. There will be a particular focus on reaching people who have been left behind. The World Health Organisation (WHO) and its partners will be highlighting the inequalities that exist with regards to adequate access to essential HIV services.

This day is a call to all global leaders and citizens to team up and redress this issue of access and treatment.

This particular public holiday is observed in South Africa in December each year as a result of 1838’s Battle of Blood River which took place between the Voortrekkers and the Zulus. In 1961, this commemorative day gained new meaning when the military division of the African National Congress, Umkhonto we Sizwe or ‘Spear of the Nation’ chose to fight against the ruling government’s policy of apartheid.

Then, after SA’s democratically elected government was established in 1994, the public holiday was renamed as the Day of Reconciliation. Today, this holiday is geared towards fostering a sense of national unity and achieving racial harmony.

74 | Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022

25 DEC Christmas Day Each year, Christians celebrate Christmas Day as the anniversary of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, a spiritual leader whose teachings form the basis of their religion.

Although it is seen as a special day in the Christian Advent Calendar, many non-religious individuals around the world also celebrate this holiday as it is a time for family and festivities. Festive activities may include exchanging gifts, having a special family lunch, singing Christmas songs, or even going to parties.

However, as we go into yet another festive season navigated by Covid-19 restrictions, Government has advised us all to celebrate in smaller groups where safety and hygiene are least compromised.

Quality family time is essential during these hard times, but we must prioritise the well-being of our loved ones.

and new Outlooks 20 DEC International Human Solidarity Day International Human Solidarity Day is a special day geared towards celebrating unity in diversity, and raising awareness on the importance of solidarity between human beings.

This particular commemorative day was established by the General Assembly of the United Nations, back in 2005, as an initiative in the fight against poverty. The new Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda is centred on people and the planet, marked by human rights and supported by a global partnership determined to lift people out of poverty, hunger and disease.

This agenda will be built on a foundation of global cooperation and solidarity: “cooperation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural or humanitarian character”. This day is also a reminder for governments to respect their commitments to international agreements.

1 JAN New Year's Day In South Africa, New Year festivities are celebrated, annually, with happiness and much excitement on the 1st January. New Year's Day, in particular, marks the beginning of the New Year in the Gregorian calendar, specifically.

This calendar is predominantly used in countries such as our own. The promise of a new year, a new chapter, is a time for deep introspection and making new resolutions. Many people celebrate this day by throwing lavish parties, indulging in alcohol and even going to concerts and special social events.

Much like Christmas this year, it is important that citizens still practice social distancing, sanitising and washing hands regularly, and wearing a face mask - no matter the occasion or environment.

30 JAN World Leprosy Day According to the WHO, there are nearly 600 more people diagnosed, each day, with leprosy. In 2014, 213 899 people were diagnosed and it has been estimated that millions more go undiagnosed and untreated. World Leprosy Day is commemorated on the last Sunday in January.

The day was marked by French humanitarian Raoul Follereau, in 1953.

This January, the day will coincide with the anniversary of Mahatma Ghandi’s death - which is the 30th January 1948. Last year, the theme for the day was: “Beat Leprosy, End Stigma and Advocate for Mental Well-Being”. World Leprosy Day is geared towards raising awareness of a disease that many global citizens view as being extinct.

Today, however, leprosy is not just about the disease that is forgotten, but the people are too.

Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 75

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Public Sector Leaders | December • January 2022 | 77

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